King Salman Orders Hosting of 1,300 Hajj Pilgrims from 100 Countries

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud has issued a royal directive to host 1,300 male and female pilgrims from 100 countries for Hajj in the year 1446 AH. This initiative falls under the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Guests Program for Hajj, Umrah, and Visitation, which is overseen by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance.

Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance Sheikh Dr. Abdullatif Al Alsheikh, who also serves as the program’s General Supervisor, expressed his deep appreciation to King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. He described the royal order as a reflection of the Saudi leadership’s enduring commitment to the Islamic world and its dedication to serving the spiritual and communal needs of Muslims globally.

In response to the directive, the Ministry promptly activated its resources to ensure high-quality services for the pilgrims. A detailed plan was developed to offer a rich spiritual and educational experience, including visits to major Islamic and historical sites in Makkah and Madinah, as well as interactions with renowned scholars and imams from the Two Holy Mosques.

Dr. Al Alsheikh highlighted that the Guests Program, launched in 1417 AH, aims to build bridges with religious and intellectual figures across the Muslim world, fostering cultural dialogue and advocacy. Since its inception, the program has welcomed around 65,000 pilgrims from 140 nations, providing extensive logistical, religious, medical, and cultural support from selection to their return home post-Hajj.

He emphasized that this initiative showcases the Kingdom’s unwavering dedication to serving Islam and Muslims. It also aligns with Saudi Arabia’s strategic goal of strengthening ties with the global Islamic community and advancing the humanitarian and religious objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.