With the arrival of pilgrims to the Holy Land to perform Hajj this year, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development branch in Madinah launched the “Anwart” initiative, which aims to receive and serve pilgrims with integrated services from the moment they arrive in the city of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, until they leave for their countries safely.
Historical background and importance of serving pilgrims
Since its founding, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has placed paramount importance on serving the Two Holy Mosques and their visitors, including pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah. Serving the guests of God is considered an honor and a historical responsibility, passed down through generations and continuously improved across all sectors of the state. The “Anwart” initiative is part of a comprehensive system of efforts reflecting this commitment. Madinah, the first stop for many pilgrims, holds a profound spiritual significance in the hearts of Muslims, as it houses the Prophet’s Mosque and the tomb of the Seal of the Prophets and Messengers.
Details of the “Anwart” initiative and its services
The initiative is implemented through the region's Social Development Center, with the active participation of male and female volunteers who embody the values of authentic Saudi generosity and hospitality. Services provided include warmly welcoming pilgrims at various air and land entry points, including:
- Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport.
- Haramain High-Speed Railway Station in Medina.
- Land pilgrims station on Al Salam Road.
- Land pilgrims reception station on the Hijra Road.
- Miqat Dhu al-Hulayfah (Abyar Ali).
The services include organizing crowd movement to ensure smooth access, guiding lost people, providing special assistance to the elderly and people with disabilities, and providing the necessary support to facilitate the performance of their rituals with ease and peace of mind.
Expected impact and importance of the initiative
The significance of the “Anwart” initiative extends beyond logistical services, creating a positive image of the Hajj pilgrimage for millions of Muslims worldwide. Locally, the initiative promotes a culture of volunteerism and social responsibility, highlighting the Kingdom’s humanitarian role. Internationally, these efforts contribute to enhancing the pilgrims’ spiritual experience and underscore the Kingdom’s commitment to achieving the highest standards of quality in serving the guests of God, aligning with the objectives of the “Guests of God Service Program,” a key component of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to enrich and deepen the Hajj and Umrah experience.
In conclusion, the “Anwart” initiative represents a model of integrated work between government agencies and society, with one goal: the comfort and peace of mind of the pilgrim, so that he may devote himself to his worship and carry with him an unforgettable spiritual memory from the city of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him.
