Crown Prince Hosts Annual Hajj Reception Highlighting Achievements And Global Concerns

His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, hosted a reception at Mina Palace on behalf of King Salman. The event welcomed heads of state, officials, and dignitaries who performed Hajj this year. Attendees included Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani, Maldivian President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, Beninese Vice President Mariam Chabi Talata Zime Yerima, and former Somali President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed.

During the gathering, verses from the Holy Quran were recited before the Crown Prince addressed the attendees. He extended Eid Al-Adha greetings to all Muslims and expressed hope for the acceptance of pilgrims' Hajj rituals. "On behalf of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, we are pleased to congratulate you and all Muslims on the blessed Eid Al-Adha," he stated.

The Crown Prince highlighted Saudi Arabia's dedication to serving pilgrims visiting the Two Holy Mosques. The Kingdom prioritises facilitating their rituals with ease and comfort. He emphasised that Saudi Arabia will continue this duty, recognising its great responsibility and honour in serving pilgrims.

Minister of Hajj and Umrah Tawfig Al-Rabiah discussed preparations for this year's Hajj season. Planning began after last year's Hajj under King Salman's supervision and Crown Prince's guidance. This led to improved integration and efficiency in the Hajj system.

Al-Rabiah noted significant achievements in various sectors during this year's Hajj. In energy, 46 projects enhanced Makkah's electrical system by 75%, with investments over SAR 3 billion. Transportation saw over 7,000 flights from 238 destinations, along with numerous train trips and bus deployments.

The healthcare sector increased bed capacity by over 60% and established a new emergency hospital. Additionally, 71 rapid intervention points were set up at Holy Sites, tripling emergency response capabilities compared to last year.

Technological Advancements

The Nusuk app now offers over 130 digital services for pilgrims' journeys from visa issuance to return. The Masar Nusuk platform streamlined contracting and procedures across authorities. The "No Hajj Without Permit" campaign ensured compliance and safe crowd management.

Syria’s Minister of Endowments Sheikh Mohammad Abu al-Khair Shukri praised Saudi Arabia's exceptional services for pilgrims. He acknowledged the Kingdom's historic mission in serving Islam through comprehensive infrastructure development and advanced technologies reflecting Saudi Vision 2030.

International Relations and Support

The Muslim World League's speech by Sheikh Muhammad bin Ahmed Hussein emphasised Islam’s goal of unity among Muslims. He highlighted Saudi Arabia's influence in unifying Muslim ranks while promoting reconciliation and tolerance.

"I express my deep appreciation—and that of all Arabs and Muslims—for Saudi Arabia’s historic support for the Palestinian cause," he said. The Kingdom leads international efforts against atrocities in Gaza while rallying support for recognising Palestine as a state.

This year's Hajj season showcased Saudi Arabia's commitment to enhancing pilgrim experiences through smart services and sustainable infrastructure development aligned with Vision 2030 goals.

With inputs from SPA