Jeddah, January 09, 2024, The inauguration of the Hajj and Umrah Services Conference and Exhibition, titled "A Passage to Nusuk," took place in Jeddah yesterday. This significant event is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and the Pilgrim Experience Program, a key initiative under the Saudi Vision 2030 programs.
Dignitaries such as Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Eng. Waleed El-Khereiji, Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), Lt. Gen. Mohammad Al Bassami, Director of Public Security, and Musaed Al-Daood, Mayor of Makkah Region, were present during the opening session.
Dr. Al-Rabiah highlighted the success of the Nusuk Application, revealing that pilgrims from 67 countries utilized it for Hajj reservations last year. He emphasized the ministry's commitment to enhancing the digital experience by providing comprehensive services through the application, including visa issuance, Hajj and Umrah bookings, and guidance materials.
Ensuring the health and safety of pilgrims remained a top priority for both the Kingdom and the ministry, according to Dr. Al-Rabiah, who expressed the goal of increasing pilgrim numbers each year.
Mayor Al-Daood disclosed plans to test towers replacing tents at Holy Sites during this year's Hajj. The Holy Makkah Municipality is actively involved in maintaining pilgrim health by regularly disinfecting the 160,000 tents and 90,000 sanitary facilities with pesticides at the end of each Hajj season, ensuring a clean and safe environment for the next season.
Eng. El-Khereiji emphasized the utilization of technology to overcome obstacles and enhance overall efficiency in Hajj and Umrah services. Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, President of GACA, announced the formation of a supervisory committee to facilitate coordination among various agencies and ensure smooth transportation. This committee aims to streamline the movement of pilgrims from their accommodations to airports, preventing overcrowding and ensuring the safe transportation of luggage.
Highlighting the international aspect, Al-Duailej revealed that over a million bottles of Zamzam holy water were shipped to pilgrims' countries last year. He urged global Hajj agencies and agents to coordinate in advance for flight scheduling, selecting safe aircraft and carriers to guarantee a comfortable and secure journey for pilgrims.
