The arrival of the guests of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques for Hajj 1447 AH has been completed
The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia announced the arrival of all pilgrims included in the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Guests Program for Hajj, Umrah and Visit. The total number of pilgrims hosted this year (1447 AH) reached 2,500, coming from 104 countries across the globe. This was in implementation of the generous royal decree, which embodies the wise leadership's commitment to facilitating the performance of the fifth pillar of Islam for Muslims from all over the world.
Diversity of pilgrims hosted during Hajj 1447 AH
This year's program is distinguished by its broad scope, encompassing 1,300 prominent Islamic figures, including scholars, preachers, influencers, and representatives from various segments of the Muslim community from 102 countries. In addition, the royal initiative included hosting 200 pilgrims from the Republic of Liberia. In a profound humanitarian and appreciative gesture, 1,000 pilgrims from the families of martyrs and those wounded in action from the sisterly Republic of Sudan were welcomed, specifically those who bravely participated with the coalition forces in Operations Decisive Storm and Restoring Hope. This reflects the Kingdom's loyalty to those who stood shoulder to shoulder with it in defense of just causes.
The historical context of the Kingdom's efforts in serving pilgrims
Since the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by its founder, King Abdulaziz Al Saud – may God have mercy on him – the state has undertaken the honor of serving the Two Holy Mosques and their visitors. The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Guests Program a natural extension of this long-standing historical legacy. The Saudi leadership has consistently hosted thousands of Muslims annually who might otherwise be unable to perform the pilgrimage, covering all their expenses. This underscores the Kingdom's noble mission of promoting tolerance and fostering unity within the Muslim community.
Continuous care and utmost attention to Islam and Muslims
In this context, His Excellency the Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, and General Supervisor of the Program, Sheikh Dr. Abdul Latif bin Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh, expressed his deepest gratitude and appreciation to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and to His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. His Excellency affirmed that this generous gesture deepens the bonds of Islamic brotherhood and underscores the Kingdom's position as a vibrant and leading force in the Islamic world. He added, "We in the Ministry are honored by this royal trust and are working diligently to dedicate all available human, material, and technological resources to ensure the success of this exceptional program, which bears a name dear to everyone.".
A comprehensive operational plan and a warm welcome
To ensure the comfort of the pilgrims, the Ministry implemented a meticulous and well-structured operational plan that began the moment they departed their home countries. Upon their arrival at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, they were greeted by specialized committees who offered them roses, Zamzam water, dates, and authentic Saudi coffee, reflecting the generosity and warm welcome of the Saudi people. Following this, they were smoothly transported to their accommodations in Mecca, which were equipped to the highest standards, before proceeding directly to the Grand Mosque to perform the Tawaf al-Qudum (arrival circumambulation) in an atmosphere of spirituality and tranquility.
Regional and international impact of hosting
The impact of this program extends beyond the religious sphere to encompass crucial diplomatic, social, and humanitarian dimensions. Regionally, it strengthens Arab and Islamic solidarity, while internationally, it presents a shining example of Islam's tolerance and the Kingdom's tremendous efforts in promoting peace and coexistence. The pilgrims hosted expressed their profound gratitude to the Saudi leadership for this generous hospitality. In closing, His Excellency Minister Al-Sheikh prayed to God Almighty to protect the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and his Crown Prince, to accept the pilgrims' rituals and good deeds, and to return them safely to their homelands.
