Guests of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques leave Mina after successfully completing the stoning ritual

The departure of the pilgrims after completing the rituals

Guests of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Hajj, Umrah, and Visit Program, overseen by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, departed Mina on Friday, the 12th of Dhul-Hijjah. This departure followed the completion of the stoning of the three pillars by the program's pilgrims on the second day of Tashreeq, thus concluding one of the most important Hajj rituals in a spiritual atmosphere of security and tranquility, amidst a comprehensive system of services and exceptional care provided by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Background on the ritual of stoning the Jamarat and the days of Tashreeq

The stoning of the Jamarat is a fundamental ritual of Hajj, symbolizing enmity towards Satan and disavowal of his actions, following the example of the Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him). Pilgrims perform the stoning of the three Jamarat (the small, middle, and large pillars) during the days of Tashreeq, the three days following Eid al-Adha. The program's guests were able to perform this ritual with ease and comfort thanks to the meticulous organizational plans implemented by the Saudi authorities. These plans included providing multiple pathways to the Jamarat facility and distributing the crowds to ensure smooth movement and prevent congestion, enabling pilgrims to perform their rituals in peace and tranquility.

The importance of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Guests Program

The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Guests Program for Hajj, Umrah, and Visitation is an annual royal initiative reflecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to serving Islam and Muslims worldwide. Each year, the program hosts thousands of pilgrims from various continents, including prominent Islamic figures, families of martyrs and those injured in the conflict from several countries, and Muslims from minority groups in non-Muslim countries. This year, the program welcomed guests from over 104 countries, making it a global platform for Muslims to meet and connect, and strengthening the bonds of the Muslim Ummah.

Next destination: Farewell Tawaf and visit to Medina

After leaving Mina, the pilgrims proceeded to the Grand Mosque in Mecca to perform the Farewell Tawaf, the final rite of Hajj before departing the holy city. Following the completion of this ritual, the pilgrims are scheduled to travel to Medina, where they will spend several days in the Prophet's Mosque, praying there and paying their respects to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his two companions. They will also visit prominent historical and Islamic landmarks in Medina, such as the Quba Mosque and the Uhud Martyrs' Cemetery, enriching their spiritual and cultural experience.

International and local impact of the program

The importance of this program extends beyond the spiritual realm to encompass diplomatic, cultural, and humanitarian dimensions. It reinforces the Kingdom's position as the beating heart of the Islamic world and strengthens the bonds of brotherhood among Muslim nations. Furthermore, it presents a shining example of Saudi Arabia's efforts to serve the Two Holy Mosques and facilitate the performance of religious rites for millions of pilgrims and Umrah performers annually, reflecting its profound commitment to its Islamic mission and its leadership role in the Muslim world.

Praise and appreciation from the guests

The program's guests expressed their deep gratitude and appreciation to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman, for their generous hospitality and the exceptional care they received. They commended the outstanding organization of the Hajj season and the high-quality services provided by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, under the leadership of His Excellency the Minister, Sheikh Dr. Abdul Latif bin Abdulaziz Al Sheikh, praying that God protect the Kingdom and its leadership and grant it continued security and prosperity.