Vietnamese pilgrims are guests of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Hajj Program
In a profound display of faith, where languages blend and hearts unite, the highest ideals of Islamic brotherhood are manifested in Mecca. Vietnamese guests Ca Mal Lut and Sal Ju sat among thousands of pilgrims from around the world as part of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Guests Program for Hajj, Umrah, and Visitation. This pioneering program, implemented and overseen by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, offered them an exceptional opportunity to experience a deeply spiritual journey, which they described as "greater than an ordinary Hajj pilgrimage.".
To highlight the broader context, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Guests Program was established in 1417 AH (1996 CE) as a generous royal initiative to host thousands of Muslims from around the world annually at the state's expense. This historic program aims to enable Muslims who have never performed Hajj, particularly those from countries with Muslim minorities, to fulfill the fifth pillar of Islam. This ongoing effort reflects the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's leading and historical role in serving Islam and Muslims, and its constant commitment to addressing their needs across the globe.
From the moment the Vietnamese pilgrims arrived in the Kingdom, their sense of wonder and awe was palpable. This wasn't limited to seeing the Holy Kaaba and the Two Holy Mosques for the first time, but extended to witnessing the unique diversity of Islam, which unites different peoples and cultures under the banner of monotheism, in an atmosphere of meticulous organization, tranquility, and genuine brotherhood.
Meticulous organization and modern technologies
In this context, Hajj pilgrim Ka Mal Lot emphasized that what moved him most was seeing such a vast number of Muslims from diverse nationalities gathered in one place in peace and security. He noted that the Kingdom had succeeded admirably in presenting a shining image of Muslim unity and its profound commitment to serving the pilgrims. He added that what he had seen on television about the Two Holy Mosques and the organization of the Hajj was completely different and far more impressive in reality. He found things much more organized, orderly, and smooth, affirming that the scale of services and modern technologies used in crowd management and facilitating the rituals reflects the tremendous progress the Kingdom is leading in serving the pilgrims, which aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 to enhance the quality of services provided to pilgrims.
Comfort and peace of mind amidst mega-projects
For his part, pilgrim Sal Jo expressed his profound admiration for the massive development projects in Mecca and the Holy Sites, such as the Third Saudi Expansion of the Grand Mosque and the development of the transportation infrastructure. He noted that the ease of movement, the smooth flow of services, the high level of cleanliness, and the meticulous organization were all essential factors that made their spiritual journey more comfortable and peaceful. He pointed out that the program was not limited to the religious aspects and hosting pilgrims, but also contributed to building strong bridges of acquaintance and effective communication among Muslims from all over the world. Everyone gathers at one table, exchanging stories, cultures, and spiritual sentiments in a vivid display that embodies the true meaning of Islamic brotherhood.
Global impact and a message of peace
The significance of this event and its anticipated impact are evident on several levels. Locally, it showcases the capabilities of Saudi personnel in efficiently managing large gatherings. Regionally and internationally, the program contributes to strengthening the Kingdom's soft power and disseminating the message of moderate and tolerant Islam. It also enhances diplomatic and people-to-people ties between the Kingdom and countries like Vietnam, positively impacting the image of Islam and Muslims in the international community.
Hospitality and wise leadership
In closing their heartfelt conversation, the two Vietnamese guests expressed their deepest gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and to His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman – may God protect them – for their generous hospitality. They also commended the tremendous efforts of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance in organizing, continuously monitoring, and providing exceptional hospitality. They concluded by affirming that the extraordinary attention and comprehensive care they received exceeded all their expectations, making their pilgrimage to the Holy Land an unforgettable and cherished memory.
