Praise for the success of the Hajj season
The Mufti of Baalbek Governorate in Lebanon, Sheikh Bakr al-Rifai, praised the resounding success of this year's Hajj season, affirming that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia presented the world with a unique model embodying the delicate balance between preserving the authenticity of religious rites and utilizing modern capabilities to serve the pilgrims. Al-Rifai considered the Hajj not merely a human gathering, but a living message reflecting the universality of Islam and the unity of Muslims. He commended the meticulous organization and comprehensive services that enabled millions of pilgrims to perform their rituals in an atmosphere of security, tranquility, and ease.
Hajj: A pillar of Islam and a global logistical challenge
Hajj, the fifth pillar of Islam, is an obligation for every able-bodied adult Muslim. Every year, millions of people from around the world converge on Mecca. Managing this massive human gathering, the largest of its kind globally, presents an immense logistical and organizational challenge. It requires coordination at the highest levels in security, health, transportation, accommodation, and catering to ensure the safety and comfort of pilgrims from diverse cultures, languages, and backgrounds, necessitating the mobilization of all available resources and technologies.
Saudi efforts combine authenticity and modern technology
In this context, Sheikh Al-Rifai, a guest of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Hajj, Umrah, and Visit Program, affirmed that what he witnessed in the Holy Sites embodies precision, organization, and meticulous work. He noted that this season successfully combined Islamic principles with the requirements of the modern age in a comprehensive and civilized manner. The Kingdom has invested heavily in the infrastructure of the Holy Sites through the massive expansion projects of the Two Holy Mosques, the development of modern transportation networks such as the Al-Mashaaer Metro, and the deployment of digital technologies and smart applications that have contributed to facilitating and organizing the movement of pilgrims and providing them with guidance in multiple languages.
A message of peace and unity from the heart of the holy sites
Sheikh Al-Rifai added that the gathering of pilgrims from diverse nationalities, languages, and ethnicities in one place, wearing the same attire and chanting the same call, reflects the universality of Islam and its ability to spread the values of love, cooperation, and coexistence. He explained that the Kingdom, through this exceptional organization, succeeded in conveying a humanitarian and civilizational message to the entire world: that Islam is a religion of peace and harmony. He emphasized that the smooth flow witnessed during the Hajj season, despite the large numbers of pilgrims, represents an exceptional achievement worthy of recognition. The combined efforts of all sectors ensured high standards in organization, services, healthcare, and security, placing the Hajj experience at the forefront of successful global models for managing large gatherings.
Thanks and appreciation to the Saudi leadership
In closing, Sheikh Bakr Al-Rifai expressed his gratitude and appreciation to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, for their invaluable services to Islam and Muslims. He also commended the efforts of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, represented by its Minister, Sheikh Dr. Abdul Latif bin Abdulaziz Al Sheikh, praising his continuous follow-up and dedication to the comfort of pilgrims. He emphasized that the humility of officials and their closeness to the guests of God embodies the true meaning of service and working for the comfort of the pilgrims to the Sacred House of God.
