Jeddah University volunteers during Hajj: Pilgrims' prayers create the greatest feeling of giving
In a magnificent display of humanity overflowing with love and devotion, the highest ideals of giving are embodied in the faces of hundreds of male and female volunteers from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. These volunteers from Jeddah University to be an integral part of serving the pilgrims, sacrificing their leisure time for long hours of tireless fieldwork. They firmly believe that the greatest reward is priceless, residing instead in the heartfelt prayer of a weary pilgrim, who finds himself greeted with a warm welcome that comforts him and relieves his hardship.
A distinguished history ranging from providing water and food to institutional volunteer work
Historically, serving pilgrims has been an integral part of the Arabian Peninsula since ancient times, with providing water and food being a source of pride and a tradition passed down through generations. In modern Saudi Arabia, this concept has evolved into an institutionalized and organized system, spearheaded by government agencies and supported by the energy of young people. Today, volunteer work during Hajj is a key pillar of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which aims to reach one million volunteers. The participation of Saudi universities, particularly the University of Jeddah, reflects the continuation of this great historical legacy, combining youthful enthusiasm with academic organization to provide the highest quality services to visitors of the Holy Mosque.
In the reception areas and crowd management centers, the volunteers' role extended beyond mere organizational tasks; they also experienced an exceptional spiritual and humanitarian journey. This experience was shaped by the smiles, prayers, and tears of joy the volunteers witnessed in the eyes of pilgrims from the moment they arrived. The newspaper "Al-Youm" documented the emotions of those participating in the "Aknaf Al-Haramain" initiative, which serves pilgrims, Umrah performers, and visitors. This pioneering initiative, launched by Jeddah University, aims to provide year-round logistical and organizational support through a professional team comprised of students, faculty members, administrators, and security personnel, reflecting the cultural and civilizational values of the Kingdom's people.
Local and international influence reflecting the values of the Kingdom
The importance of this event and its anticipated impact are evident on several levels. Locally, volunteering contributes to shaping the character of Saudi youth and strengthening their sense of belonging and social responsibility, thus creating a conscious and proactive generation. Regionally and internationally, these efforts paint a bright picture of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as the custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, showcasing to the world the values of tolerance, generosity, and humanity that Islam promotes. Every pilgrim returns home carrying an inspiring story of a young Saudi man or woman who offered them a helping hand with a genuine smile, further enhancing the Kingdom's soft power and its positive global influence.
Field experiences and indescribable feelings
At the outset, volunteer Mohammed Al-Otaibi expressed his feelings, saying that his feelings during the service of the pilgrims were beyond description.
Mohammed Al-Otaibi
He explained that the team begins its duties by receiving and welcoming the pilgrims, activating their “Nusk” cards, and then guiding them to their designated locations with ease and organization. Al-Otaibi added that the greatest experience for the volunteers is the feeling that God has chosen them to serve the guests of the Most Merciful, emphasizing that the prayers they hear from the pilgrims give them an indescribable feeling. He added, “When you see a pilgrim smiling and praying for you from the bottom of their heart, you feel that the whole world is worthless compared to that prayer.”.
Serving the guests of God is a deeply rooted culture
For his part, university student Saleh Ahmed Saleh confirmed that his participation in serving the pilgrims is a great source of pride for him and his family.
Saleh Ahmed Saleh
He pointed out that the culture of serving pilgrims is deeply rooted in Saudi society, given that the Kingdom is the land of the Two Holy Mosques. He explained that his father was his biggest supporter in participating in volunteer work, as he was keen to guide him and teach him the importance of patience and cheerfulness in dealing with pilgrims, noting that a smile and kind words can have a profound impact on the hearts of pilgrims.
Saleh said that volunteering during Hajj is not limited to providing field services only, but is an experience that builds a person and instills in him the values of responsibility, mercy and generosity, adding that seeing the pilgrims praying with eagerness and longing to the holy sites makes every effort made worthwhile.
Quality initiatives and comprehensive support
On another front, Noha Al-Ghamdi, a student at the College of Business at Jeddah University, expressed her immense joy at participating in serving the pilgrims, emphasizing that this work represents a great honor for every young man and woman in the Kingdom. Al-Ghamdi stated that the volunteers experience moving moments daily, especially when welcoming pilgrims arriving after long journeys, as they appear tired and anxious about the procedures, but the warm reception and excellent organization quickly dispel those feelings.
She added that the team participates in welcoming pilgrims through the “Welcome, Pilgrim” initiative, in addition to assisting in their movement from assembly points and helping them complete registration procedures. They also prepare “Labbayk” bags containing essential items for pilgrims, as well as printed and electronic copies of the Quran in various languages. She noted that the volunteer work also extends to providing support and assistance within the Grand Mosque in Mecca and the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina by organizing pilgrim movement and facilitating their transportation. She emphasized that the most rewarding experience for a volunteer is seeing the peace and gratitude on the faces of the pilgrims after providing them with assistance.
