The non-profit sector's plan for Hajj 1447 AH was a success thanks to the efforts of 39,000 volunteers
The National Center for the Development of the Non-Profit Sector announced the complete success of its operational plan and initiatives for the 1447 AH Hajj season, an achievement that reflects the integration among the various entities working to serve the pilgrims. This success is a culmination of the unlimited support from the wise leadership, which has dedicated all resources to serving the Two Holy Mosques and their visitors. It also underscores the pivotal role of the non-profit sector in Hajj as an active national partner, contributing to the realization of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 goals of maximizing the sector's social and economic impact.
Managing the Hajj season is one of the world's greatest logistical challenges, as the Kingdom receives millions of pilgrims from diverse cultures and nationalities within a short timeframe. Over the decades, the system for serving pilgrims has evolved significantly, shifting from primarily reliant on government efforts to an integrated system involving multiple sectors. In this context, the non-profit sector has emerged as a vital element, not only in providing traditional assistance but also as a strategic partner contributing to organization, guidance, and health and psychological support, thus enriching the pilgrim's experience and embodying the values of solidarity and generosity that represent the essence of this great ritual.
Integrated efforts: The role of the non-profit sector in Hajj
This year's Hajj season witnessed the achievement of the center's ambitious goals within the volunteer work system, implemented through the "Volunteering is Our Nature" campaign. The campaign successfully engaged over 39,000 male and female volunteers who provided their field services across the various holy sites, border crossings, pilgrim cities, designated prayer areas, and roadside rest stops. The volunteers' efforts covered numerous vital areas, including guidance and direction, providing first aid, distributing water and food, assisting in crowd management, and offering support to the elderly and people with disabilities. This had a direct impact on facilitating the pilgrims' journey and ensuring their safety and comfort.
Technology enhances operational efficiency
To ensure the highest levels of coordination, the third iteration of the “Volunteer Operations Center” proved its high efficiency as a command and control center. The center successfully connected 16 relevant governmental and non-profit entities through a unified platform and advanced digital dashboards. This technological integration directly contributed to accelerating emergency response, enhancing the efficiency of coordinating and managing volunteer efforts in the Holy Sites, accurately and effectively directing field teams, and preventing duplication of efforts, thus ensuring comprehensive coverage of all vital locations throughout the Hajj season.
A civilized and honorable image for the world
The center expressed its profound pride in the exemplary and highly professional image demonstrated by non-profit organizations and dedicated volunteers in serving the pilgrims of the Holy House of God. This outstanding performance would not have been possible without the effective partnership between the National Center for the Development of the Non-Profit Sector, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, the Guests of God Service Program, the General Authority for Endowments, and the Nusuk Humanitarian Foundation. This success not only reinforces the Kingdom's position as a leader in the Islamic world but also presents a global model for crowd management and organized volunteering, reflecting the noble humanitarian values of Saudi society.
