Hajj services in Jeddah: Distribution of 285,000 printed materials and video fatwas
As part of ongoing efforts to provide the best possible services to pilgrims in Jeddah, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, represented by its offices at King Abdulaziz International Airport and Jeddah Islamic Port, continues to implement its awareness and guidance programs to serve the guests of God arriving in the Kingdom to perform Hajj. This integrated system aims to educate pilgrims and facilitate their performance of the rituals in accordance with the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah, reflecting the wise leadership's commitment to providing all means of comfort and peace of mind for those visiting the Kingdom.
The historical development of the Kingdom's efforts in caring for the pilgrims
Since the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by its founder, King Abdulaziz Al Saud – may God have mercy on him – the state has considered serving the Two Holy Mosques and their visitors a paramount priority. Historically, awareness and guidance mechanisms have evolved dramatically. From relying on direct, verbal instruction at the holy sites, they have transformed into a comprehensive institutional system utilizing the latest technologies. This historical development reflects a firm commitment to facilitating the Hajj pilgrimage, with the combined efforts of various government sectors ensuring the safety, security, and well-being of pilgrims from their arrival until their safe return home.
Distribution of hundreds of thousands of informational brochures
Field efforts since the start of the Hajj season have included the distribution of over 285,000 educational and informational publications in several international languages. These publications included books and religious and awareness materials on the rulings of Hajj, Umrah, and visiting holy sites. Among the most prominent publications distributed were: "A Guide to Hajj Practices," "Verification and Clarification," "A Guide for Pilgrims and Umrah Performers," "Fortress of the Muslim," and "A Concise Guide to Hajj, Umrah, and Visiting Holy Sites." In addition, information cards were distributed about the Ministry's electronic library and its digital applications, allowing pilgrims to access information anytime, anywhere.
Visual communication technologies enhance services for pilgrims in Jeddah
In a pioneering step to keep pace with digital transformation, the Ministry has provided video conferencing devices at pilgrim reception centers. This technology allows pilgrims to ask their religious questions and receive fatwas and guidance around the clock. This is done through a select group of qualified preachers and translators, ensuring that accurate religious information is delivered in an accessible manner. The Ministry has also taken into account the diverse nationalities of the pilgrims by providing translation services and printed materials in multiple languages, including English, Urdu, Indonesian, Turkish, Bengali, French, Russian, Persian, Hausa, and Malayalam.
The regional and international impact of raising awareness among pilgrims to the Holy Mosque
The impact of these awareness programs extends far beyond the local level of organizing and facilitating the movement of pilgrims within the holy sites. It also has a significant regional and international impact. When pilgrims receive proper guidance based on moderation and balance, they return to their countries carrying the tolerant message of Islam, becoming ambassadors of peace and knowledge in their communities. These efforts align with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to enrich the religious and cultural experience of pilgrims and present a global model for crowd management and the provision of humanitarian and religious services of the highest quality.
