JEDDA: The ongoing third Hajj and Umrah Services Conference and Exhibition in Jedda featured a range of panel discussions, with a primary focus on the significant role of “Diplomatic Collaboration in Hajj and Umrah Operations.”
The panel, moderated by Dr. Alhassan Yehia Almanakhra, undersecretary for international cooperation at the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, featured distinguished speakers such as Saudi ambassadors to Egypt, Turkiye, Djibouti, and Bangladesh.
The panel underscored the importance of diplomatic representatives in and outside Saudi Arabia, emphasizing their integrated efforts in coordinating and communicating to provide essential support and assistance for pilgrims. Discussions covered various aspects, including the role of technology in the visa issuance process, coordination mechanisms with Saudi authorities, and the ambassadors’ crucial role in identifying and addressing gaps and challenges.
Ambassador Osama Nugali commended the integration of modern technology in visa issuance, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030 goals.
Fahad Abualnasr, Saudi ambassador to Turkiye, underscored the effective collaboration with Turkish authorities, emphasizing the provision of comprehensive training courses for pilgrims.
“In the Saudi Embassy in Turkiye, we prioritize furnishing Turkish pilgrims with all necessary information and regulations in the Kingdom. The success is evident through the Turkish Hajj mission securing first place in the Excellence Award for Hajj missions by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. This accomplishment serves as motivation for entities to continually offer the best services to the guests of the Almighty,” he stated.
During the session, the pivotal role of ambassadors in identifying and addressing gaps and challenges for successful pilgrimage missions was emphasized.
Bamakhrama highlighted the collective responsibility of Hajj missions falling under the representatives of respective countries, emphasizing the importance of cooperation in identifying, addressing, and overcoming challenges.
He emphasized the complementary nature of the relationship between diplomatic missions and the Hajj and Umrah system.
Saudi ambassador to Bangladesh Essa Al-Duhailan focused on integrated efforts between diplomatic missions abroad and the Hajj and Umrah system, particularly highlighting the significance of awareness in countries like Bangladesh.
In countries with significant Muslim populations like Bangladesh, where over 90 percent of the 170 million inhabitants aspire to visit the holy sites, Al-Duhailan stressed the collaboration with the Saudi Embassy in Bangladesh, which concentrates on providing educational programs and enlightenment.
The session highlighted successful coordination with various countries, offering insights into training courses, information exchange, and addressing challenges to enhance the pilgrimage experience.
The event aims to address challenges, enhance readiness, and shape the future of Hajj and Umrah services, bringing together exhibitors, innovators, researchers, and entrepreneurs.
