King Salman Hosts 1,300 Pilgrims from 100 Nations for Hajj 1446
In a generous initiative, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud has approved the hosting of 1,300 pilgrims from 100 different countries to undertake the sacred rituals of Hajj in the year 1446 AH. This decision is part of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Program for Hajj, Umrah, and Visits, which is managed by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Da’wah, and Guidance.
Expressing gratitude for this initiative, Sheikh Dr. Abdul-Latif bin Abdulaziz Al Sheikh, the Minister of Islamic Affairs and Head of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Program, acknowledged King Salman and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, the Prime Minister, for their benevolent directive. He emphasized that this gesture highlights the wise leadership of Saudi Arabia in addressing the needs of the Muslim community, reaffirming the Kingdom’s pivotal role in the Islamic world.
Upon receiving the royal directive, the ministry promptly mobilized all available resources to ensure that the best services are provided to the guests. An exhaustive implementation plan has been developed, encompassing not just spiritual and ritualistic needs but also cultural and educational programs. This plan includes guided tours of significant Islamic and historical sites in both Mecca and Medina, in addition to organizing seminars and discussions with various scholars and imams from the holy mosques. Such activities are designed to enhance the spiritual and intellectual impact of this blessed journey.
The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Program for Hajj and Umrah represents an exceptional initiative aimed at strengthening ties with religious, academic, and intellectual leaders worldwide. This effort amplifies cultural and religious communication, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s commitment to fostering collaborative relationships within the Muslim community. Since its inception in 1417 AH, the program has welcomed approximately 65,000 pilgrims from 140 countries, providing a comprehensive array of logistical, religious, health, and cultural services. These services extend from the initial selection of pilgrims through to their safe return after completing the Hajj rituals.
This noble hospitality encapsulates Saudi Arabia’s unwavering commitment to serving Islam and the global Muslim population. It exemplifies the Kingdom’s vision for nurturing deeper connections with Muslim societies and enhancing its positive international presence. This aligns seamlessly with the broader objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, encompassing both Islamic and humanitarian dimensions.
Minister Al Sheikh expressed hopes for ongoing blessings upon the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the Crown Prince, praying for their continued success in their admirable endeavors to uplift and support Islam and its followers. He also wished for the ongoing stability and security of Saudi Arabia, reinforcing its leadership across various fields.
This initiative not only serves as a testament to the Kingdom’s dedication to religious observance but also highlights the importance of unity within the Islamic community. By facilitating the pilgrimage experience for a diverse group of individuals from around the world, Saudi Arabia continues to solidify its role as a global leader in the promotion of Islamic values and practices, ensuring that its contributions resonate well beyond its borders. The support for pilgrims reflects a broader commitment to fostering understanding, cooperation, and goodwill, elements that are essential for a cohesive global Islamic community.
As preparations ramp up for this year’s Hajj, the ministry’s focused approach ensures that these 1,300 pilgrims will not only complete their religious obligations but also return home enriched with knowledge and spiritual experiences, further strengthening the bonds of the global Muslim community.
