Makkah, December 30, 2024 — The second group of participants in the prestigious Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Program for Umrah and Visitation has officially completed their spiritual journey and departed for their home countries. This follows the completion of their Umrah rituals, a visit to the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah, and participation in a variety of cultural and religious activities. The program, organized by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah, and Guidance, serves as a key initiative to provide pilgrims from across the world with the opportunity to engage in a deeply spiritual experience in Saudi Arabia.
The departure ceremony took place at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, where program officials warmly bid farewell to the group of pilgrims. The participants expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity to perform Umrah, visit the revered Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah, and pray at the Holy Rawdah — one of the most spiritually significant sites within the mosque. They also had the chance to explore several important historical and religious landmarks in both Makkah and Madinah, enriching their understanding of Islamic history and heritage.
The group, which consisted of 250 pilgrims from 14 European countries, praised the program's exceptional hospitality and the seamless services provided throughout their stay. They highlighted how the meticulous planning and coordination by the Ministry ensured that all logistical needs were met, allowing them to focus entirely on their spiritual practices. From their transportation to accommodation and guidance, the participants noted the level of comfort and support that made their pilgrimage both spiritually enriching and emotionally fulfilling.
The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Program for Umrah and Visitation reflects Saudi Arabia's ongoing commitment to facilitating spiritual journeys for Muslims from around the world, fostering a sense of unity and cultural exchange. The program is particularly significant as it brings together pilgrims from different cultural backgrounds, allowing for a cross-cultural dialogue centered around shared values of faith and spirituality.
This initiative is a testament to Saudi Arabia’s leadership in organizing global religious events, under the stewardship of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, with a focus on providing pilgrims with the highest level of care, attention, and spiritual fulfillment. It also aligns with the Kingdom's broader efforts to enhance the experience of international visitors and to reinforce the importance of religious diplomacy in fostering stronger ties between the Kingdom and the global Muslim community.
For the participants, the journey has not only been a chance to perform religious duties but also an opportunity to deepen their connection with the Islamic faith, while experiencing the warmth and hospitality of the Saudi people. Many pilgrims expressed their deep appreciation for the program’s emphasis on creating an experience that went beyond just the physical act of pilgrimage, encompassing a full spiritual and cultural immersion.
As this second group departs, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Program continues to fulfill its mission of promoting spiritual growth, intercultural exchange, and a sense of global Islamic unity, with many more groups expected to embark on their journeys in the coming months.
