Welcoming Russian and Tunisian pilgrims in Mecca | Hajj News
The first group of pilgrims arrived in the Holy Land, with Mecca welcoming Russian and Tunisian pilgrims in a spiritually uplifting and welcoming atmosphere. The first group of Russian pilgrims numbered approximately 1,200, representing the vanguard of nearly 14,000 Russian pilgrims who will perform Hajj this year. Simultaneously, the first group of Tunisian pilgrims, numbering 1,000, arrived to begin their spiritual journey in the vicinity of the Holy Kaaba.
A long history of serving the guests of God
The Hajj pilgrimage is the fifth pillar of Islam, and historically, Mecca has been the meeting point for millions of Muslims from all corners of the earth. For decades, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has dedicated all its resources to serving pilgrims and facilitating their arrival. The influx of pilgrims from geographically and culturally diverse countries reflects the profound global and Islamic significance of this ritual. Historically, the Hajj journey was a long and arduous one, lasting for months. Today, thanks to tremendous advancements in infrastructure, transportation, and facilities, the journey has become much easier and more convenient, highlighting the Kingdom's pivotal role in facilitating this great religious duty.
Russian and Tunisian pilgrims warmly welcomed with Saudi identity cards
In a display of genuine hospitality, the pilgrims' guides for Arab countries, represented by their executive arm, "Ikram Al-Daif" Company, welcomed the guests of God with the rich Saudi heritage. The reception for pilgrims from Russia and Tunisia included offering blessed Zamzam water, premium dates, and Saudi coffee, in addition to scattering rose petals and distributing commemorative gifts. The reception was attended by the company's leadership, including board members Mr. Fouad Bishara and Mr. Muwaffaq Khoja, CEO of "Ikram Al-Daif" Mr. Saudi Eid, his deputy Mr. Ghazi Radi, and those in charge of the field service centers dedicated to the pilgrims.
Strategic dimensions and regional and international impact of the Hajj season
The success of the Hajj season and the reception of international pilgrims holds immense significance that extends beyond local boundaries to encompass regional and international dimensions. Locally, this annual event reflects the efficiency of both governmental and private entities in managing crowds and providing logistical, health, and security services at record levels. Regionally and internationally, providing high-quality services to pilgrims from diverse countries enhances the Kingdom's soft power and reaffirms its leadership in the Islamic world. It also contributes to strengthening cultural and diplomatic ties between nations, as pilgrims return to their countries with positive memories of the organization and hospitality.
Improving Hajj services in line with the Kingdom's Vision 2030
The Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Arab Countries Pilgrims' Guides, Mr. Mohammed Maajini, affirmed that Ashraqat Company is honored to provide services to Russian pilgrims for the fourth consecutive year, while its services to Tunisian pilgrims have been continuous since the establishment of the Arab Countries Pilgrims' Guides four decades ago. He emphasized the company's complete readiness to receive and serve pilgrims from all continents. He explained that there is a strong commitment to enhancing the services provided to pilgrims to the Holy House of God through the launch of numerous programs and initiatives aimed at providing the highest quality and most refined services, enriching the pilgrim's journey to achieve the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030.
Continuous efforts to provide maximum comfort
For his part, the CEO of Ikram Al-Dhaif, Mr. Saudi Eid, welcomed the pilgrims, emphasizing their commitment to providing the utmost comfort and ease during their pilgrimage, in accordance with the vision and directives of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz – may God protect him – to care for those visiting the Two Holy Mosques. Similarly, the Deputy CEO, Mr. Ghazi Radi, explained that services will be provided to more than 11,000 Tunisian pilgrims through five field service centers, noting the implementation of various initiatives within the programs designed to welcome the guests of God.
