Under the direction of His Royal Highness Prince Khalid bin Faisal bin Abdulaziz, advisor to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and Governor of Makkah Region, the first meeting of the Hajj and Umrah Committee was led by His Royal Highness Prince Saud bin Mishal bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Governor of Makkah Region. The meeting was held to review the plans and preparations of relevant entities for the upcoming Hajj season in 1446 AH, as well as the progress of ongoing projects aimed at facilitating the journey for the pilgrims during this year’s Hajj.
Prince Saud bin Mishal emphasized the importance of implementing the wise leadership’s directives, which always stress the early preparedness for the Hajj season. This includes the coordination of efforts across all sectors to provide the necessary services for the pilgrims, ensuring their utmost comfort. The Saudi government, under the leadership of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has spared no effort in facilitating and enabling the pilgrims to perform their religious rites with ease, tranquility, and security.
The meeting also discussed the latest developments regarding the operational readiness of relevant entities for the upcoming Hajj season in 1446 AH. Significant progress was noted in the developmental projects underway in the holy sites, such as the renovation of the mosques for pilgrims in Mina and Nimra, as well as shading pedestrian pathways in Mina and Arafat, and the installation of canopies with mist fans for cooling in the area of Mount Arafat. Additionally, efforts are being made to reduce the impact of direct sunlight and provide a more comfortable environment for the pilgrims.
The committee reviewed projects aimed at planting trees and increasing vegetation cover in the holy sites to enhance air quality, reduce temperatures, and minimize their impact on the pilgrims. Projects include the establishment and development of 400 drinking water fountains, as well as rest areas for pilgrims covering an area of 28,000 square meters between the holy sites.
Other projects involve the creation of emergency and first aid centers, with 15 units planned, along with 71 emergency and first aid departure centers distributed along the pilgrims’ route. These centers will provide urgent medical and treatment services, as well as logistical assistance to the pilgrims, such as water, light meals, and guidance services. Additionally, there are projects for the second phase of the Muzdalifah pilgrim path, covering 170,000 square meters, with rubber flooring, green spaces, rest areas, water stations, and mist fans.
Furthermore, there are plans to establish two-story restroom complexes with 64 units, and prepare and rehabilitate waste compression sites in Mina with 135 locations to increase storage capacity for waste during the Hajj seasons. The committee also discussed various other topics on the agenda and made necessary recommendations regarding them.
In conclusion, the efforts and preparations being made by the authorities in Makkah underline the commitment to ensuring a smooth and comfortable experience for the pilgrims during the upcoming Hajj season. With a focus on meticulous planning and execution of various projects, the aim is to provide the necessary services and facilities that will contribute to the pilgrims’ well-being and enhance their spiritual journey.
