Enhancing Security and Support for Pilgrims During Hajj 1446
In alignment with directives from His Royal Highness Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, the Minister of Defense, General Staff Chief, Lieutenant General Fayadh bin Hamid Al-Ruwaili, conducted an extensive inspection of the military units assigned to the Hajj mission for the year 1446 AH. This initiative aims to bolster the efforts of security agencies and government entities dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of the pilgrims, referred to as "Guests of Allah."
The visit commenced with an inspection of the air force’s units stationed at Arafat Airport, where Lieutenant General Al-Ruwaili was greeted by Major General Hamed bin Rafi’ Al-Amri, the Joint Forces Chief of Staff and head of the oversight committee for Hajj at the Ministry of Defense. He was also welcomed by Major General Khalid bin Said Al-Shaiba, commander of the military units participating in the Hajj mission, alongside several senior military officers.
During this visit, the General Staff Chief was briefed on the unit’s responsibilities and preparedness to deliver air support as part of the operational plans developed by the Ministry of Defense for the Hajj season. Following this, he proceeded to the command center of the military units deployed for the Hajj operation in the Al-Awali region, where he received a detailed overview of the leadership’s tasks and the coordination mechanisms among the different units.
Next, he toured the dedicated camps set up by the Ministry of Defense for its personnel, the families of martyrs and injured servicemen from the Saudi and Yemeni forces, as well as high-ranking military leaders from allied and friendly nations, including accredited military attaches in the Kingdom. During this visit, he appraised the preparations and services offered to the esteemed pilgrims.
He also visited the headquarters of the General Administration for Religious Affairs of the armed forces, where he was informed about the administration’s role and the guidance and awareness programs it provides to the Ministry’s pilgrims and guests.
Subsequently, Lieutenant General Al-Ruwaili inspected the field hospital managed by the health services department of the Ministry of Defense located in the Arafat area. He reviewed its advanced medical facilities and engaged with the dedicated healthcare professionals working there, expressing gratitude for their efforts in delivering high-quality healthcare services to the pilgrims.
Concluding his field tour, the General Staff Chief reviewed the participating units at the operational command area in Al-Maghmas, where he was briefed on the operational and organizational plans designed to ensure the safety of the pilgrims throughout their spiritual journey.
In his remarks during the visit, Lieutenant General Al-Ruwaili conveyed the greetings and gratitude of His Royal Highness Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, emphasizing the high level of readiness and discipline exemplified by military personnel. He reaffirmed that ensuring the security of Hajj and the pilgrims remains a paramount national priority not to be taken lightly.
Furthermore, he highlighted that the Ministry of Defense’s participation is reflective of the Kingdom’s commitment and concern for the service of pilgrims, demonstrating comprehensive readiness and integration with security agencies and other governmental bodies. This collaborative effort is crucial for facilitating a smooth and reassuring experience for the pilgrims.
The Ministry of Defense’s involvement in the Hajj season of 1446 AH encompasses a broad plan that includes security, organization, and health components. Ground forces, particularly the special military police, are tasked with crowd management and securing vital areas within the holy sites to support the Ministry of Interior’s initiatives. They also contribute to crowd disbursement and the organization of movement at key transition points.
In addition, the air force offers advanced aerial support that involves monitoring, reconnaissance, and ensuring the safety of the skies over holy sites. Meanwhile, the navy is responsible for securing maritime entry points and addressing suspicious materials, while also supporting search-and-rescue operations through diving teams. They are complemented by specialized units comprising infantry and unmanned aerial vehicles.
On the healthcare front, the health services of the Ministry of Defense have developed a comprehensive medical plan that includes the operation of 36 health facilities with a combined capacity exceeding 1,040 beds, staffed by more than 1,790 medical and administrative personnel distributed across hospitals and field clinics within the holy sites. This meticulous arrangement underscores the commitment to upholding the health and safety of each pilgrim during this significant religious observance.
