The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues its tireless efforts to serve the pilgrims and facilitate their performance of the Hajj rituals with ease and peace of mind. In this context, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, represented by the General Secretariat for Islamic Awareness in Hajj, Umrah and Visitation, is receiving calls from pilgrims via a toll-free hotline dedicated to answering their religious inquiries, as part of the comprehensive Islamic awareness programs for the 1447 AH Hajj season.
The historical context of serving the guests of God
Historically, since its founding, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has undertaken the great responsibility of caring for the Two Holy Mosques and serving their visitors. Guidance and awareness services have evolved dramatically over the decades. Once limited to direct instruction in the holy sites through small study circles, they now rely on the latest communication methods and digital technologies. This transformation aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to enrich the religious experience of pilgrims and Umrah performers, and facilitate their access to accurate religious rulings and information derived from the Quran and Sunnah anytime, anywhere.
Details of the free telephone service in 14 languages
To ensure that all pilgrims, regardless of their language, receive accurate information, a select group of qualified Ministry preachers and collaborators, well-versed in Hajj rulings and rituals, are available to answer callers' inquiries via the toll-free number (8002451000). A key feature of this service is the provision of interpreters fluent in 14 international languages, effectively bridging the language barrier and facilitating communication with pilgrims of diverse nationalities. The toll-free number operates 24/7 throughout the Hajj season, with an automated response system to ensure inquiries are received and directed accurately and promptly.
Leveraging technology: Video communication in 40 languages
The Ministry's efforts didn't stop at voice calls; it also facilitated the remote participation of preachers to answer questions related to Hajj rulings, rituals, and other legal matters pertaining to worship. In a pioneering technological step, the Ministry activated a video call service via iPads in more than 40 languages. This technology allows pilgrims to ask their questions directly, face-to-face, to preachers and translators, enhancing the quality of awareness and guidance services and adding a human and interactive dimension to the experience.
The importance and expected impact of the service
Domestically, these advanced services contribute to organizing the movement of pilgrims and preventing stampedes resulting from ignorance of certain religious dispensations, thus facilitating efficient crowd management by security and regulatory authorities. Regionally and internationally, providing responses in 14 languages via telephone and 40 languages via video call reflects the Kingdom's civilized image and its commitment to serving more than 1.5 billion Muslims worldwide. This effort provides pilgrims with psychological and spiritual peace of mind, ensuring they perform the Hajj rituals according to correct Islamic rulings, and allowing them to return to their countries with fond memories of the exceptional organization and care provided.
