RIYADH: Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud has ordered to host 1,300 male and female pilgrims from 100 countries to perform Hajj this year under the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Guests Programme for Hajj, Umrah and Visitation.
The initiative is overseen by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported on Friday.
Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance Sheikh Dr. Abdullatif Al Alsheikh, General Supervisor of the programme has stated that following the directive, the ministry immediately mobilised all its resources and capabilities to deliver the highest quality services to the esteemed guests.
A detailed implementation plan has been carefully crafted, incorporating a range of cultural and educational initiatives. These include guided visits to significant Islamic and historical sites in Makkah and Madinah, along with meetings with esteemed scholars and imams of the Two Holy Mosques. The goal is to enhance the pilgrims’ spiritual journey and provide a deeper intellectual and cultural understanding.
The minister added that the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Guests Programme for Hajj, Umrah, and Visitation is a unique initiative designed to strengthen bonds with religious, scholarly, and intellectual leaders across the Islamic world, while fostering cultural exchange and advocacy.
He noted the programme has so far hosted approximately 65,000 pilgrims from 140 countries. The ministry has provided these guests with a comprehensive range of logistical, religious, health, and cultural services, from their nomination through to their return to their home countries after completing the Hajj rituals.
He added that the initiative clearly portrays the Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to serving Islam and Muslims.
This year, the annual pilgrimage is expected to take place in June. While the exact number of pilgrims for Hajj 2025 is yet to be confirmed, early projections indicate it could be a record-breaking year, with more than 2.5 million pilgrims expected to participate.
