Arrival of 1000 Sudanese pilgrims as part of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Guests Program
The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia announced the arrival of 1,000 pilgrims from the families of martyrs of Operation Decisive Storm and Operation Restoring Hope from the sisterly Republic of Sudan. This generous hosting is a prominent part of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Guests Program for Hajj, Umrah and Visit, which the Ministry is implementing this year with a comprehensive system of exceptional services and facilities. This initiative aims to facilitate the arrival procedures for the pilgrims and their transfer to their accommodations in Makkah with ease and peace of mind, reflecting the wise leadership's commitment to honoring the families of martyrs and providing them with complete care.
The depth of historical relations and support for brothers
This hosting cannot be viewed in isolation from the broader context and historical background of the event. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has consistently stood by the Republic of Sudan in various circumstances and hardships. The participation of Sudanese forces in the Coalition to Support Legitimacy in Yemen, within the framework of Operations Decisive Storm and Restoring Hope, stands as a testament to Arab and Islamic solidarity in confronting regional challenges. Hosting the families of these martyrs is a message of loyalty and appreciation from the Kingdom for the immense sacrifices made by the sons of Sudan in defense of the region's security and stability. This deeply rooted humanitarian approach spans decades, as Saudi Arabia is always keen to extend a helping hand and care to the families of martyrs and the wounded from brotherly and friendly nations, thus strengthening the bonds of brotherhood and solidarity.
Comprehensive care within the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Guests Program
From the moment they arrived in the Holy Land, pilgrims hosted under the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Guests Program were provided with a comprehensive package of high-quality services. These services included a warm welcome at entry points, transportation via modern, well-equipped buses, and accommodation in upscale hotels near the Grand Mosque in Mecca. The Ministry also provided catering services and comprehensive healthcare to ensure the pilgrims' well-being, in addition to offering awareness and guidance programs in multiple languages. All these efforts combine to enable the guests of God to perform the Hajj rituals in a spiritually enriching and comfortable environment, under the direct supervision of His Excellency the Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, the General Supervisor of the Program, Sheikh Dr. Abdul Latif bin Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh, who monitors the operational processes around the clock.
Feelings of gratitude and appreciation for the Saudi leadership
A large number of pilgrims hosted by the families of martyrs expressed their profound gratitude and appreciation to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and to His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Prime Minister – may God protect them both. They affirmed that the exceptional care and attention they received from the moment of their arrival reflects the Kingdom's leading role in serving Islam and Muslims. They also commended this generous gesture, which embodies the deep respect and loyalty the Kingdom holds for the families of martyrs, and prayed to God Almighty to protect the Kingdom and its leadership and to perpetuate its blessings of security, safety, and stability.
Regional and international impact of hosting
The significance of this event transcends the local dimension, encompassing far-reaching regional and international impacts. This year, the program hosts 2,500 pilgrims representing 104 countries from across the globe, including 1,000 pilgrims from Sudan. This remarkable geographical diversity reflects the soft power of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its pivotal role as the heart of the Islamic world. Bringing together Muslims from diverse cultures and backgrounds under one roof to perform the fifth pillar of Islam reinforces the values of tolerance, moderation, and centrism that the Kingdom champions. This massive organizational effort also highlights Saudi Arabia's exceptional capacity for crowd management and the efficient delivery of complex logistical services, further solidifying its image as the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and a leader in humanitarian and Islamic cooperation on the international stage.
