ARAFAT (Saudi Arabia): The Hajj season of this year has attracted 1,845,045 pilgrims from 150 countries, says Saudi’s Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dr Tawfiq Fawzan Muhammed Al-Rabiah.
Speaking at a press conference held at the ministry’s camp at the Arafat Site, Al-Rabiah highlighted the tireless efforts of the ministry’s field teams and partners in providing comprehensive services to ensure a tranquil and peaceful Hajj experience for all pilgrims.
The minister underscored the ministry’s commitment to addressing any service failures that may disrupt the smooth journey of the pilgrims.
“On this occasion, the minister extended his gratitude and appreciation to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, for their support and commitment to ensuring the highest quality of services for pilgrims,” he was quoted as saying by Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
Al-Rabiah emphasised the significant role played by technology in enhancing services for pilgrims of the Grand Mosque and facilitating the performance of their rituals. The minister specifically highlighted the expanded use of the Pilgrim’s Card, which forms part of the ministry’s suite of digital solutions introduced during this year’s Hajj season, 1444 AH.
These efforts aim to improve services, assist lost pilgrims, and facilitate communication between pilgrims and their group leaders.
Al-Rabiah further disclosed that, for the first time, domestic pilgrims were able to register for Hajj online and make installment payments.
Additionally, pilgrims from 67 countries in Europe, the Americas, and Australia were permitted to register and book electronically.
The minister also emphasised plans to further expand the application of this technology in the future. – Bernama-Spa
