A warm welcome for the first group of Chadian pilgrims in Mecca for the 1445 Hajj season
In an atmosphere of faith, warmth, and hospitality, Makkah welcomed the first group of pilgrims from the Republic of Chad, numbering approximately 700, marking the beginning of the arrival of pilgrims from around the world to perform Hajj this year, 1445 AH. A grand reception was held for the Chadian pilgrims upon their arrival, where they were greeted with welcoming songs and roses, and offered blessed Zamzam water, dates, and authentic Saudi coffee, in a scene reflecting the warm welcome that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia extends to visitors of the Holy Mosque.
Historical background and ongoing Saudi efforts
This reception is part of a comprehensive system of services provided annually by the Kingdom to millions of pilgrims. Serving the guests of God is a historic honor and a great responsibility that the Kingdom has borne since its founding. Over the decades, Saudi Arabia has dedicated all its material and human resources to developing the infrastructure in the Holy Sites and expanding the Two Holy Mosques, with the aim of ensuring the comfort and safety of pilgrims. These efforts culminate in the modern era through the “Guests of God Service Program,” one of the most important programs of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which aims to enrich the religious and cultural experience of pilgrims and Umrah performers and provide exceptional services befitting the status of this great ritual.
The importance and impact of the event
The arrival of the first groups of pilgrims from countries like Chad, located in the heart of Africa and with historical ties to the Kingdom, carries profound significance. Domestically, this organized reception highlights the success of the operational plans for the Hajj season and reflects the pivotal role of Tawafa companies, such as the Arab Countries Pilgrims' Tawafa Company (Ashraqat), in elevating the level of services provided. Internationally, it reinforces the Kingdom's positive image as a hospitable nation that welcomes Muslims from all corners of the earth, thus strengthening diplomatic and cultural ties with the Republic of Chad and the entire Muslim world.
Reception details and services provided
The reception was organized by the Arab Countries Pilgrims' Guides Company (Ashraqat), through its operational arm, “Rihlat wa Manafaa” (Travel and Benefits). The company's Chairman, Mr. Mohamed Maajini, affirmed that Ashraqat is honored to serve pilgrims from Chad for the second consecutive year, emphasizing the company's commitment to applying the highest quality standards and launching initiatives aimed at enriching the pilgrim's journey in line with the goals of Vision 2030. For his part, the CEO of “Rihlat wa Manafaa,” Mr. Mohamed Al-Tayeb Al-Khuzami, explained that the company is fully prepared to serve approximately 8,000 pilgrims from Chad. He also revealed a unique initiative to welcome pilgrims in their local languages, which brought joy and happiness to their hearts and made them feel as if they were in their second home.
