Hotlines designated for handling health, security emergencies
Pilgrims perform prayers at the Grand Mosque in the Saudi holy city of Mecca ahead of the Hajj pilgrimage, on June 19, 2023.AFP
Saudi Arabia, Islam’s birthplace, has said it is fully prepared to serve hundreds of thousands of Muslims who will converge on the kingdom to perform the annual Hajj pilgrimage due early June.
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj has said it has completed preparations ensuring comfort and safety for the pilgrims during the upcoming congregation in and around the holy city of Mecca.
The ministry has allocated emergency hotlines to swiftly respond to the pilgrims’ needs. The pilgrims can contact the Guests of the Two Holy Mosques Care Centre by calling 1966, while 977 is designated for handling health and emergencies.
In case of security emergencies, pilgrims can call 911. They can also contact 937 for inquiries related to services provided by the ministry.
These numbers, the ministry said, are aimed at ensuring immediate support when needed, streamlining procedures and providing rapid interaction with pilgrims in different cases.
Hajj is one of Islam’s five obligatory duties. Muslims, who can physically and financially afford Hajj, have to undertake it at least once in a lifetime.
Last month, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj opened registration for Saudis and Muslim foreign residents wishing to perform this year’s Hajj rites.
The ministry said priority in registration for domestic pilgrims is given to those who have not previously performed Hajj, except for the escort of the eligible pilgrim.
Another requirement is that the national card or residency permit must be valid until the 10th of the Islamic lunar month of Dhul Hijjah, marking the following day of the Hajj climax.
The registration must be based on correct and accurate data, as entering incorrect information invalidates the application.
The ministry stressed that the pilgrim must be in good health, suffering from no acute, contagious, or chronic diseases. The pilgrim must complete the meningitis and seasonal influenza vaccinations.
Around 1.8 million Muslims, including 1.6 million from abroad, performed last year’s Hajj.
