Makkah News and Updates

9 Oct 2013

The Kingdom is poised for massive urban development this year with the implementation of several first-of-its-kind projects, Bandar Hajjar, minister of Haj, said.

In an interview with Arab News, Hajjar said: “The government has allocated billions of riyals for these projects, some of which are already under way. Several others will be taken up this year. There are also future projects that have already been awarded and commissioned to leading Saudi construction companies.”

“The ministry has deployed technology in the service of pilgrims,” he said. “The processing of Haj and Umrah paperwork is now done electronically. This is a historic achievement. Many problems that we used to face in the past will not arise, such as the overstaying of visitors beyond the Haj season. Visitors themselves will benefit and will be spared from time-consuming procedures.”

Hajjar said: “The ministry held 45 training and educational courses for staff working in Haj to prepare them to better serve pilgrims. I want to emphasize that Haj services form a complete system in itself.”

“We are also establishing women’s units in Makkah, Madinah and Jeddah. They will have separate entries and exits for men, in accordance with the dictates of Shariah. Tawafa companies have their own women’s committees that play an essential role in the assistance of female pilgrims,” the minister said.

“We will recruit many more women when construction of the buildings to provide housing for female workers at the ministry is completed. The ministry does not have any objection to women working for the tawafa companies as long as they observe the legal dictates of Islam,” he said.

http://www.arabnews.com/news/467198
---- 9 Oct 2013

Haj has always been one of the significant activities for Muslims all over the world.
It is among the five pillars of Islam, which makes it a religious duty that should be fulfilled by every Muslim.

Haj has evolved as time went by thanks to various factors that affected it, especially technology.
Technology is mankind’s proof of progress and innovation.
Some say that it is meant to make life easier and more convenient while others think that it is harmful and is the main cause of today’s global problems but in the case of Haj, it has undeniably made the practice easier, more convenient, and more accessible to Muslims around the world.

Communication was one of the beneficiaries of modern technology through media, one of technology’s greatest contributions to Haj.
Since the Kaaba is located in Makkah, Muslims residing in different parts of the world used to have a hard time participating in the event due to long distances.

Now, with the help of technology through broadcast media Haj can be witnessed by Muslims in different countries through television, radio, newspapers or online media.

Long distance communication between the pilgrims and their loved ones is also made possible by technology through mobile networks.
This year, the Saudi Telecom Company (STC), with its partners, is set to cater the communication needs of the pilgrims by offering various limited-offer services, including the ‘SAWA Visit’ bundle.
Moreover, reports said STC has been improving all its communication outlets at holy sites in the Kingdom, including Makkah, to accommodate the large volume of outgoing and incoming calls during Haj.

First time pilgrims need not worry in performing Haj thanks to modern day gadgets, especially smart phones.
Muslims who own smartphones can install applications that will help them know what to do during Haj through electronic guidebooks made by fellow Muslims from around the world.

Security and safety was also enhanced by technology through engineering. It improved the Haj experience of pilgrims by fortifying the antique structures in Makkah, including the mosques and hotels.
In, 2006, Luluat Alkheir a small hotel in Makkah collapsed killing 76 Asian pilgrims.

Other accidents involving old and antique structures followed, but this year the Ministry of Haj put safety and comfort of Hajis in their top priority to ensure that no more accidents will occur during Haj.

In that connection, the Civil Defense Forces (CDF), recently conducted checks and analyzes to the structures that will be used by the pilgrims during the holy event including the Grand Mosque, roads, and tunnels among others.

The Saudi government also made an effort to simulate accidents in order to improve the reaction time of safety patrols in case something bad happens.
Advanced crowd control techniques and gadgets also helped prevent accidents such as stampedes that happened in 1990, 2004, and 2006, which claimed the lives a total of 2,040 pilgrims.

Moreover other facilities like additional escalators, fixed stairways, and reinforced roof area of the Grand Mosque among others was made possible by technology.
Without modern technology, sick and elderly pilgrims will have a hard time during Haj.

Hot temperature and dehydration are two of the most common problems of pilgrims but was remedied by installing top-class air-conditioning units in tandem with water dispensers, and heat-resistant tiles to help pilgrims complete their journey.

In the transportation front, modern technology undoubtedly has made it easier to transport pilgrims internationally and locally.
The presence of railways, and airplanes made the journey to Makkah faster and more convenient as opposed to riding camels or walking to the holy place like what the first pilgrims experienced.
Pedestrian routes and tunnels have also helped in providing ease of access to pilgrims.

Also this year, one of the greatest breakthroughs in Haj happened in the form of the Haj electronic registration system.
Mohammad Eli Mua, president of the Union of Muslim Associations, told Arab News that he appreciates this new method by the Saudi government.
“The electronic registration for Hajis is a good form of crowd control technique. That way, the Kingdom can prevent accidents such as stampedes from happening especially during the stone throwing ritual,” he said.
Needless to say, technology really played a great role in improving mankind’s way of life and practices, including Haj but some argued that it may have reduced the essence of performing the holy event.

Past Haj records stated that some Hajis upload their photos and routine in their social networking accounts during the holy activity that garnered criticisms from fellow Muslims around the world saying that “pilgrims should be fully focused in performing Haj.”
A blog from an analyst added such acts are taboo, especially inside the holy city and strongly advised pilgrims who will embark on Haj this year that “they should refrain from doing other things and just focus on the pilgrimage and its true essence.”

A number of people concurred and expressed their sentiments to Arab News.
“Technology may have bad effects in performing Haj but I think that majority will agree that most of it are good,” Mua said.
“I also think if it wasn’t for technology, more lives will be claimed every Haj due to the failure to maintain and fortify the facilities in Makkah or Muslims in different parts of the world may not be given the chance to visit the holy sites themselves,” he added.

Sulaiman, a Saudi national, said technology is an in-animate thing and therefore, cannot be bad nor good in its own way.
“It is the people who will decide if they should use technology for good or for bad deeds. In the case of Haj, I can confidently say that more people used technology to improve its practice,” he said.

http://www.arabnews.com/news/467173 9 Oct 2013

MAKKAH — A study is under way to construct two-story camps that will accommodate up to 8 million pilgrims, the deputy minister of municipal and rural affairs said here on Monday.

Dr. Habeeb Zainulabedeen said the Central Department for Projects Development has prepared a detailed plan for this year's Haj to facilitate the rituals of the pilgrims.

He pointed out that six projects have been completed this year and that the ministry was cooperating with all concerned bodies to solve any problems that may arise so that all services are ready for the pilgrims.

The new projects will help in reducing overcrowding of Hajis and in monitoring the pilgrims' movements in Jamarat and at train stations.

These projects include a link between the Al-She'aibeen and Al-Me'aisem areas to the third floor of the Jamarat Bridge.

The project also includes tunnels, and a bridge crossing King Khalid Road to the Jamarat. These tunnels are 16-meter wide and are the widest tunnels ever constructed in Makkah. This project will increase the number of pilgrims using the Jamarat Bridge by 15 percent.

In addition, the Al-Aziziyah area was linked to the fourth floor of the Jamarat Bridge, as many pilgrims spend their Haj days in the area. The slaughterhouse was moved to Al-Sharaye area and a 5-km road was constructed to facilitate pilgrims' movements to and from the facility. Zainulabedeen added that parking areas around train stations have been transformed into camping areas for the pilgrims.

Train stations and train paths have been fenced to protect them from pilgrims.

He pointed out that a detailed study is being conducted in cooperation with other concerned bodies to construct two-storied fireproof tents in Arafat. These tents will occupy an area of 8 million square meters and increase the occupancy of Arafat by 71 percent.

He said that older toilets that were built more than 40 years ago will be removed and 15,000 toilets will be installed at various points of the holy sites.

He pointed out that around 1,600 students of both genders will participate in the monitoring and transportation of pilgrims.

In addition, the ministry has prepared detailed plans for the transportation of pilgrims. These plans were prepared with the assistance of international experts in crowd control.

http://www.saudigazette.com.sa/index...20131009183095

9 Oct 2013

MAKKAH – Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdul Aziz Al-Asheikh said that spending money to help the poor and needy or helping another Muslim to perform his obligatory ritual of Haj is better than repeating Haj by a wealthy Muslim.

He made the remarks while addressing the three-day Grand Haj Seminar with the theme “Learn priorities in Haj” which began here on Tuesday. He urged Islamic scholars to enlighten Muslims on this major aspect of Islam.

The seminar was inaugurated by Minister of Haj Bandar Hajjar.

Sheikh Abdurahman Al-Sudais, head of the Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques, delivered a lecture on the expansion of the two Holy Mosques and the Jamarat.

More than 200 scholars, researchers and thinkers from all over the world are attending the seminar organized by the ministry.

http://www.saudigazette.com.sa/index...20131009183146 9 Oct 2013

MAKKAH — Around this time every year young Makkah citizens, especially school students, join various charitable organizations as volunteers to serve pilgrims in different ways.

While some serve coffee and Zamzam water to pilgrims inside the Grand Mosque, others help lost and frail pilgrims.

These youngsters have proved their dedication and sincerity in serving pilgrims.

Sheikh Mansour Al-Amer, director of the Makkah-based Pilgrims and Umrah Peformers Foundation, said all young people who volunteered with the foundation displayed admirable hardworking qualities and perseverance. “It is as if they were competing with each other to provide more services to the guests of Allah,” he said.

Emad Al-Zuwaihiri, a volunteer, told Okaz/Saudi Gazette he feels honored that he has been given this golden opportunity to serve pilgrims.

“I look at it as a duty, a holy one. I can’t describe my happiness every time a pilgrim thanks me after I serve him.”

Al-Zuwaihri considers himself a lucky person because he was born and raised in Makkah, where pilgrims from all over the world flock to perform Haj. Ibrahim Al-Thaqafi, who is still in high school, described what he does as a humanitarian act.

“It’s true that what we do is demanding physically and requires us to exert more and more effort, nevertheless all volunteers enjoy it thoroughly.” He said he feels proud when he sees a pilgrim raising his hands in the air and praying for him as a way of thanking him for his help.

http://www.saudigazette.com.sa/index...20131009183111
9 Oct 2013

RIYADH — Minister of Interior Prince Muhammad Bin Naif has directed authorities to complete the arrangements to host 128 families of martyr security officers, who died while on of duty for Haj season at the ministry’s expense, according to Maj. Gen. Ibrahim Al-Mahrij, director of military affairs for the ministry, SPA reported Monday. For the sixth year in a row, the ministry will allocate Haj arrangements for five members from each family wishing to perform Haj this year. The ministry will make sure that all families perform the Haj ritual with comfort and ease. It signed a contract with a local Haj provider to offer the families exquisite accommodation services. The families will be placed in an accommodation facility near the Jamarat Bridge where they will be provided with transportation, catering, and medical services.

http://www.saudigazette.com.sa/index...20131009183120 9 Oct 2013

MADINAH — Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah will receive 18,000 pilgrims on Tuesday and Wednesday. These pilgrims will arrive on 72 flights, and are the last for this year’s season as Haj flights end 10 p.m. Wednesday. The first departing flight from the Kingdom is on Dhul Hijah 13. More than 7,000 workers from eight government bodies and 35 airlines operate the airport. So far, 1,500 Haj flights have arrived at the airport. The airport staff have been successful in receiving these pilgrims efficiently and processing their papers quickly, airport managers said.

http://www.saudigazette.com.sa/index...20131009183119 9 Oct 2013

MAKKAH — The commander in charge of Haj security helicopters said a special security helicopter base would be constructed in the holy sites. The base will cover an area of 5 million sq. meters and is expected to be completed soon, said Maj. Gen. Mohammad Al-Harbi. He pointed out that 18 security helicopters are ready to participate in this year's Haj.

These helicopters are entrusted with monitoring pilgrims’ movements on the roads and bridges. They are commanded by Saudi pilots who have received their training in the US in addition to technical teams trained in Australia. Al-Harbi said there are future plans to construct additional bases in a number of areas.

All roads have been surveyed and are monitored, while no unusual activities have been recorded, he said. Al-Harbi said all helicopters are equipped with the latest equipment and special medical teams will participate for the first time this Haj.

http://www.saudigazette.com.sa/index...20131009183118 9 Oct 2013

JEDDAH — A team of trained female Passports Department (Jawazat) officials will inspect the identification papers of women pilgrims and ensure their legal status in the Kingdom before letting them start their Haj journey, Ahmad Al-Luhaidan, spokesman of the Passports Department, told Saudi Gazette.

“This female team is trained on forgeries and is assigned to inspect female identification cards and check documents before letting women pilgrims cross the security checkpoints,” he added.

Penalties will imposed on those attempting to perform Haj without a permit. Those who are caught without Haj permits, will be fingerprinted and their punishments include deportation and bannrf from entering the Kingdom for 10 years,” said Al-Luhaidan.

The security checkpoints to enter Makkah include: Al-Shumaisi Highway, Old Al-Shumaisi, Al-Buhaita, Al-Kar, Al-Taneem, Al-Kaakiya, Al-Husayniya and Al-Okaishiya, Al-Luhaidan said.

The Directorate General of the Passports Department, he added, has worked on several plans for the Haj season. Among them is “to ease the entry of pilgrims through airports and seaports.”

Meanwhile, the Makkah governorate has warned that those arranging unauthorized Haj pilgrimages will be referred to the Bureau of Investigation and Prosecution.

Saudi vehicle drivers carrying illegal pilgrims will be imprisoned for a year and will have their cars impounded.

Saudis violating rules will have their cases referred to the Ministry of Interior, which will set punishments.

About 70 Passports Department vehicles will be tracking illegal pilgrims. Besides, 30 security checkpoints have been set up around the holy sites to monitor any violations during the entire Haj season.

This year, authorities are also making use of an electronic gadget to detect forged Haj permits.

http://www.saudigazette.com.sa/index...20131009183115

9 Oct 2013

JEDDAH — Over half of the first phase of the new King Abdulaziz International Airport project has been finalized, said Prince Fahd Bin Abdullah, head of the General Authority for Civil Aviation. Remaining work on this phase will be finalized by the end of 2014.

The new airport will be ready by 2014 to welcome 30 million passengers each year. The second phase will increase the number of passengers to 43 million by 2025, while the third phase will increase capacity to 80 million by 2035.

At the completion of the first phase, the private sector will be given a chance to invest in the airport, said the GACA president. The airport will generate over SR30 billion by 2018.

The existing south terminal is to be turned into cargo areas for private operators; it will also be used by GACA.

Asked about the privatization of airports, Prince Fahd explained that it will be carried out gradually in the Kingdom and will start at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, then King Abdulaziz Airport and then other airports. “We hope that this will help advance the services provided to passengers at airports and present a good image of the Kingdom,” added the prince.

The prince spoke to journalists during a tour around the new airport project organized by GACA.

The tour revealed planned infrastructure work for the monitoring and control center, airplane field, car parking lots and to extend the control tower from 110 meters to 136 meters, making it the tallest in the world.

The work also includes maintenance, construction of the halls and mosques that can welcome 3,000 people as well as flood and sewage disposal projects.

GACA, in cooperation with the Jeddah governorate and traffic department, will construct a new highway that will link the Al-Haramain Expressway with Madinah Road.

http://www.saudigazette.com.sa/index...20131009183116

10 Oct 2013

Saudi Arabia has deployed 95,000 police forces in Makkah and other holy sites to ensure the safety and security of nearly 2 million pilgrims during this Haj season, said Interior Minister, Prince Muhammad bin Naif, while urging pilgrims not to exploit the annual event for political purposes.

He also emphasized the readiness of security forces to confront any possible terrorist attack or threats during the annual pilgrimage.

“We have established a special Haj and Umrah force with 40,000 men for the first time,” the prince said.

He added: “We hope pilgrims will be able to perform his Haj rituals with peace and tranquility.”

The prince said that Saudi Arabia would not allow anybody to make Haj a platform for staging political conflicts or sectarian differences.

He also warned pilgrims that any such disturbances could be catastrophic because of the presence of a large number of people in a small area.

Prince Muhammad, who inspected security forces camped in Mina and other Haj arrangements, said his forces have taken measures to ensure pilgrims’ security.

“Saudi Arabia is honored to serve the guests of God and provide them with a secure atmosphere to perform their religious duties with comfort,” the minister said.

He noted the support being extended by Defense Ministry forces, the National Guard and general intelligence forces to police to maintain law and order during the Haj season.

Prince Muhammad said: “We are now in the process of mobilizing the new Haj and Umrah force. We have provided the team with equipment and training to carry out its services to pilgrims throughout the year.”

He said ongoing expansion works at the Grand Mosque in Makkah and Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah would enable more pilgrims to perform Haj in the coming years.

He also advised Saudis and expats to follow Haj regulations.
“Electronic gates have been installed to ensure that only those holding valid Haj permits enter the holy sites,” he said.

http://www.arabnews.com/news/467307 10 Oct 2013

Police officers will conduct random fingerprinting on pilgrims in Makkah and the holy sites to identify pilgrims without Haj permits, according to a top official.

Gen. Masoud Faisal Al-Adwani, assistant commander of the Haj security forces for the management and organization of pedestrians, said violators would be punished after the season ends.

Both foreigners and citizens will be subjected to these inspections, he said.
“The plan is to take violating pilgrims by surprise,” said Al-Adwani.

The Ministry of Haj and the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) have installed electronic surveillance and data systems in vehicles that would allow police officers to check pilgrims’ biometric information. These systems are linked to servers at the Ministry of Interior.

These vehicles would be stationed at checkpoints on the way to Makkah, said Abdul Qadir Ghiberti, chairman of the Haj Committee at the JCCI.
Expatriate pilgrims caught without permits will be deported and banned from entering the Kingdom for 10 years.

Al-Adwani said illegal Haj pilgrims place pressure on officials at the holy sites, particularly health and emergency personnel.
They also “endanger their own lives because they could get run over by cars or fall victim to pickpockets.”

Al-Adwani said: “We are very optimistic that these measures in the field will eliminate a large proportion of violators.”

Makkah Gov. Prince Khaled Al-Faisal has meanwhile applied for a Haj permit as part of the Saudi government’s awareness campaign.

A picture showing him with the permit has been released to the media.
The government has warned of tough action against those transporting illegal pilgrims.

http://www.arabnews.com/news/467305 10 Oct 2013

JEDDAH — Some 300 expatriates, who hoped to perform Haj this year, have been trapped by an organizer of a fake domestic Haj tour operator here and were defrauded of their money.

Some of the victims Tuesday registered a cheating and fraud case against the organizer and the firm at Al-Aziziyah District police station.

Saleem, who registered with the firm to perform Haj two weeks ago, said he paid SR4,500 to the firm. “But as the Haj dates neared the man in charge of providing Haj facilities and also our contact suddenly disappeared and switched off their mobile phones,” he said.

Saleem, like all others caught in the man’s trap, had registered his name and paid cash to the man at his office in Sahafa Street here, and got receipts and assurances that they would be able to perform Haj this season.

Once a person in the group stumbled onto the fraud he alerted all and they contacted the police. The police, on their part, have assured them that their money will be returned.

According to another victim, who preferred to remain anonymous, the issue is that many of these people are from the low-income group and were asked to pay SR4,500 each to perform Haj.

“Everyone here is desperate and want to perform Haj before they leave, especially that many have their exit visa in hand,” he said.

People who registered with the fake operator are mainly Indians and Pakistanis with women constituting about 30 percent of the group. Some of them have come from different regions in the Kingdom.

The victims have also contacted the Ministry of Haj to help them preform their pilgrimage this year, but have not succeeded. A source also told Saudi Gazette that the suspect in this matter is an Indian.

The source added that the Indian Consulate General has taken up the issue with the authorities and promised effective action .

Jeddah Police spokesman First Lt. Nawaf Al-Bouq confirmed that they have registered the fraud case. Speaking to Saudi Gazette he said, “We have already closed the office and are now investigating the case.”

Meanwhile, Hatim Qadi, deputy minister of Haj for Haj Affairs and also the spokesperson of the ministry, said recently that the ministry in cooperation with police in Makkah region have busted 13 fake Haj missions.

He elaborated that there are only 205 authorized Haj operators this year. He added that they support low-income Haj program that can serve up to 17,000 pilgrims.

http://www.saudigazette.com.sa/index...20131010183269 10 Oct 2013

Sheikh Abdul Aziz Al-Asheikh, the grand mufti, has urged Muslims who have performed Haj once already to avoid the pilgrimage journey this season in order to allow first-time pilgrims the opportunity to perform Haj conveniently.

The mufti advised Muslims to donate the money they would have spent on the pilgrimage to support those in need.

Addressing a conference organized by the Haj Ministry in Makkah, he said Haj is compulsory for a person once in his lifetime. “Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) performed Haj only once,” he said. “Muslims should follow these rules and make Haj easier for everybody."

He stressed that a person’s Haj duty is accomplished by performing it once in his or her lifetime and that there is no need for repeating the pilgrimage, especially in these years when a large number of pilgrims come for Haj from different parts of the world.

http://www.arabnews.com/news/467304
October 09, 2013

MAKKAH — A number of Saudis and expatriates have launched a joint campaign titled “stay home, do not bother pilgrims” with the aim of enabling the guests of God, especially those coming from abroad to perform Haj at ease and comfort.

The campaign is aimed at reducing the number of domestic pilgrims, which has already been cut by 50 percent to give room to other pilgrims to perform their Haj rituals conveniently.

The campaign has asked all those who have performed Haj before, whether domestic or external pilgrims, to abstain from performing it again this year to reduce overcrowding and allow pilgrims with permits to perform Haj comfortably.

The Ministry of Haj has reduced the number of external pilgrims by 20 percent domestic pilgrims by 50 percent because of the ongoing expansion projects in the Grand Mosque, which has greatly condensed the Mataf (circumambulation) area. The project will be completed in three years.

A number of Saudi scholars have asked people who have already performed Haj and Umrah to stay home this year to give others the opportunity to perform Haj easily.

Faisal Al-Qahtani, a Saudi working for a Haj service-providing company, asked all Saudis and expatriates to give a chance to others by only performing Haj once. “The stay home campaign should reach everyone. Those who have performed Haj before should not do it again this year,” he said.

Al-Qahtani warned that the repetition of the performance of Haj every year may deprive others who have not performed it before from doing it this year. “Allah has required Muslims to perform Haj once in a lifetime. We should all abide by what Almighty Allah has dictated to us,” he said.

Ibrahim Al-Asiri, another Saudi, asked local media to focus on urging Saudis and expatriates who have already performed Haj not to make it a habit every year. “When you give a chance to another person to perform Haj for the first time in his life, you will be equally rewarded by Allah for this good deed,” he said.

He noted that old people, who are rich and financially capable, tend to perform Haj every year seeking more rewards from Allah in their old age. “These people can spend their money on helping the poor and needy instead of using it to perform Haj and they will be rewarded,” he said.

Amani Al-Hiraimly, a Saudi woman, said she has established a special committee with a number of her relatives and neighbors to enlighten the women in their district to “stay home” this year and keep away from going to Makkah or the holy sites to enable other women to perform Haj easily. She said the committee distributed booklets and pamphlets to educate women against repeating the performance of the Haj which is a once in a lifetime duty.

She said a number of her neighbors and relatives have understood the objective of the campaign and decided to remain home this year. “Let us allow the people who are performing Haj for the first time in their lives to be comfortable,” she said.

Dr. Mohammed Mansour Al-Madkhali, Professor of Comparative Fiqh at King Khaled University, praised the government’s decision to reduce the number of both the external and internal pilgrims and said this move would allow Muslims performing the duty for the first time to do it comfortably. “All Muslims should cooperate with the government to make Haj an easy journey,” he said.

He recalled that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) had performed Haj once in his lifetime so as not to burden the Muslims by doing it every year.

Mohammed Al-Dabbash, a lawyer, said voluntary Haj should be stopped until the expansion projects in the Grand Mosque are completed. He said the requirements that were necessary to perform Haj in the past used to be a camel to move the pilgrims throughout their journey to Makkah. “Now this requirement has become the Haj permit and the Haj campaign,” he said.

Dabbash said instead of spending their money on performing Haj every year, the voluntary pilgrims can spend their money on other useful purposes and they will be rewarded equally to the pilgrims. “People should stop performing voluntary Haj at least for the coming three years,” he said.

http://www.saudigazette.com.sa/index...20131010183207

10 Oct 2013

Seven pilgrims were injured when tents collapsed due to strong winds and heavy rain that fell on Mina and Arafat on Wednesday.

The injured were transferred to hospitals in the city.

Col. Abdullah Al-Harthi, Civil Defense spokesman, clarified that they received a warning report from the Presidency of Meteorology and Environment (PME) indicating the possibility of heavy rains in Makkah Province and put in place a plan to deal with it.

The plan involves taking the help of troops, installing advanced equipment, deploying rescue teams and evacuating people in unstable weather conditions.

Hajis sent back

Security officers deployed at checkpoints along the roads leading to Makkah have sent back at least 1,587 Saudi pilgrims who tried to enter the holy city to perform Haj because they did not possess Haj permits.

Brig. Abdullah Al-Obaid, commander of the security forces in Baheeta, said his officers also arrested 179 expats holding invalid residency permits and 10 Saudis for transporting unauthorized pilgrims.

“Illegals will be sent back after taking their fingerprints,” the general said. “We also sent back 5,800 vehicles that are not licensed to enter the holy sites,” Al-Obaid said.

He said expatriates caught without Haj permits would be deported and would not be allowed to return back for 10 years.

http://www.arabnews.com/news/467290

10 Oct 2013

Haj Minister Bandar Hajjar said Tuesday that the Kingdom does not interfere in the selection and identification of pilgrims coming to the country to perform the Haj rituals.

Addressing a seminar in Makkah, the minister confirmed that the selection of pilgrims is up to individual states. “The Saudi government only arrived at an agreement with countries on the number of pilgrims after reducing the quota of overseas pilgrims by 20 percent,” he said.

Hajjar said reducing the number of pilgrims is a temporary step and an exceptional decision due to the expansion projects. He said that such a decision was necessary to maintain the safety of pilgrims.

Hajjar noted that the electronic Tafweej program for the final exit of pilgrims is designed to eliminate crowding and congestion at airports.

Under the program, no bus will be allowed to leave Madinah or Makkah without confirming that passengers on the bus have confirmed return tickets to their home countries.

He stressed the need to invest in such seminars with a view to discussing the concerns and the aspirations of Muslims, as well as to educate them on the religious rituals.

Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdul Aziz Al-Asheikh declared that Muslims who delay the pilgrimage for years in order to make it easier for other pilgrims are rewarded, referring to statements made by senior Islamic scholars about achieving a balance between charitable deeds and spiritual rituals.

http://www.arabnews.com/news/467200 10 Oct 2013

Domestic Haj pilgrims from the capital will begin their journey to Makkah on Friday.

Various groups and Haj operators in the capital are offering attractive travel packages for local pilgrims for the upcoming Haj pilgrimage.

Around 200,000 pilgrims from the Kingdom are expected to perform Haj this year. The Passport Department has issued Haj permits for domestic pilgrims and has warned those without a permit not to travel to the holy sites.

The Dawah Center in Rawdah has offered an eight-day package for SR3,500 for bachelors, which includes all three meals during the journey. The pilgrimage will begin from Riyadh on Friday.

According to the center’s organizer, the organization provides an equal amount in subsidies for each pilgrim. Besides the meals, pilgrims will be given accommodation in Minah, transport within Makkah and a guide to help them perform the Haj rituals methodically.

“We have divided the groups according to their native language. These languages include Tamil, Urdu, Bengali and Tagalog,” he said.
The Dawah groups in Shifa and Dallah have also arranged their own package deals ranging from SR3,500 to SR4,500 per pilgrim. These services are restricted to bachelors only.

A private group, which is linked to a Haj operator, offers SR7,000 for pilgrims traveling with their family.

“We will take care of all the Haj formalities with the exception of the ‘qurban’ (animal slaughter),” a spokesman from the group told Arab News, adding that the pilgrims have to pay for the animal sacrifice. He explained that those who cannot afford to slaughter an animal should fast for 10 days in lieu of the qurban.

The spokesman said that the offer is open both to families and bachelors who wish to perform the pilgrimage this year. He added that the increase in the package is solely due to the increased cost of accommodation, transport and food expenses. He added that pilgrims would be given an orientation program before their departure to the holy city.

A religious scholar who leads a group in Riyadh said that he charges SR11,500 for the entire pilgrimage, which includes airfare, meals, accommodation, transport, train fares and medical aid. However, he said that pilgrims would be responsible for their own meals during their travels to and from Makkah. He explained that pilgrims would be ferried to and from Makkah in luxury coaches and that pilgrims’ accommodation would be based in new Minah. An accredited Haj operator in the capital arranged the program.

Travel operators also undertake responsibility for processing Haj permits for the pilgrimage. Pilgrims are required to asked to provide standard forms issued by the Passport Department, together with copies of their resident's certificate, passport, certificate of vaccination against meningitis, employer’s consent letter and three photographs.

Local pilgrims are allowed to perform Haj once every five years. Pilgrims can log onto the Ministry of Interior’s online service to check their eligibility to participate in the pilgrimage.

The Saudi government has made arrangements for pilgrims to offer animal sacrifice through the Saudi Project for the Utilization of Haj Meat in coordination with the Islamic Development Bank (IDB). The prescribed timeframe for animal sacrifice extends from the end of Eid prayers until sunset of the third day of Eid.

Primary healthcare centers throughout the Kingdom offer vaccination against meningitis free-of-charge to pilgrims, while private clinics charge around SR40 per pilgrim.

http://www.arabnews.com/news/467187 10 Oct 2013

Bangladesh Haj pilgrims will have their mobile phones equipped with Google maps and other interactive software to guide them during Haj this year.

Asad Al-Zaman, Haj consul at the Bangladesh Consulate in Jeddah, told Arab News on Tuesday that the mission has a 24-hour help desk backed up by a professional information technology team.

He said the mission sends out SMSs regularly on important health and other matters.

Al-Zaman said 90,002 pilgrims from Bangladesh intend to perform Haj this year. Around 80,500 pilgrims have arrived, while the remaining are expected on Wednesday, the last date set for foreign pilgrim arrivals.

Al-Zaman said that 199 flights arrived up until Monday, with Saudi Arabian Airlines operating 104 flights and Bangladesh's national carrier 95 flights.

He said that 88,392 pilgrims are performing Haj through private agencies, with 1,610 pilgrims sponsored by the government. There are 628 Haj agencies in Bangladesh.

Al-Zaman said his country’s 160-strong Haj medical team treated 26,750 pilgrims in the holy cities. Authorities have said that 25 Bangladeshi pilgrims have died, 16 in Makkah, seven in Madinah and two in Jeddah.

http://www.arabnews.com/news/467199 10 Oct 2013

Eighty-eight Tunisian pilgrims at King Abdulaziz International Airport (KAIA) in Jeddah have completed entry procedures but could be sent back to their country because their visas were not issued from their country, local media reported.

Khalid Al-Husseini, the customs hall supervisor at Pilgrims’ City in KAIA, said a committee would look into the issue.

The committee, formed through entities such as Customs, Investigation, Passport and Airport Security, as well as the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), is studying the case. “The committee will decide on the course of action after communicating with authorities,” he added.

“Their visas haven’t been issued in Tunis, but in Mauritania,” he said.
Obtaining a visa from another country violates the rules and regulations of the Ministry of Haj because every country has been allocated a certain number of pilgrims, he added.

http://www.arabnews.com/news/467299 10 Oct 2013

Several Haj service providers continue to flaunt the names of scholars and sheikhs in their marketing campaigns to lure pilgrims into paying higher fees despite the Ministry of Haj banning this practice.

The companies exploit the names of renowned sheikhs as a pretext for increasing their rates beyond normal prices.

Sources said the Haj Ministry banned Umrah and Haj service providers from publicizing the names and photos of sheikhs and preachers in their campaigns, warning that violators will be subjected to fines and penalties. The ministry allows the companies to hire religious guides and preachers but has prohibited them from using their names for commercial gain.

Sheikh Ibrahim Al-Abdel Aziz, a preacher, said exploiting the names of renowned sheikhs is bound to increase prices. “This is against the regulations issued by the Ministry,” he said. “Companies should not take advantage of pilgrims.”

Muhammad Al-Harbi, a citizen who approached a Haj service provider, said prices reached SR18,000 because the office hires a renowned sheikh for offering Haj services.

Al-Harbi called on authorities to deal firmly and strictly with those who exploit the system for financial gain.

Hatem Qadhi, undersecretary of the Haj Ministry, said the Ministry issued mandatory directions to Haj service providers not to exaggerate prices for domestic pilgrims.

http://www.arabnews.com/news/467186

 

Saudi Hires Occupation-Friendly

 

Company ''G4S'' for Hajj Security

 

 

 

 

British committee calls on Saudis

to cancel contract with London-based G4S
 

Jeddah, Dhu-AlHijjah 5, 1434, Oct 10, 2013, SPA

The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques today ordered the opening of Phase I of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques expansion project of the holy grand mosque, including the ground floor, first floor, the first mezzanine and second mezzanine of the building as well as the northern, southern and western yards of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques expansion project of the holy grand mosque and its affiliates to accommodate about 450,000 worshippers, out of the targeted additional capacity of one million worshippers to bring to 1,600,000 the total number of prayers at one time by the completion of the project by coming Ramadan (ten months from now).

In implementation of the monarchy's order, as many as 10,000 ablution place, a water circulation out of 20,000 were completed together with the provision of cold potable water inside the expansion building and its courtyard, the operation of escalators to facilitate traffic between the ground and first floors as well as the first mezzanine and second mezzanine of the new building as well as the escalators providing access to underground water circulation area, the operation of air conditioning, lighting, audio amplifying, closed circuit control and fire combat systems.

http://www.spa.gov.sa/English/print.php?id=1156302

11 October 2013

Muslims going to the holy city of Mecca, in Saudi Arabia, to fulfill their hajj pilgrimage duties are being greeted with a very nice surprise. A museum dedicated to explaining the biography of the Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h.) is portraying his life and teaching using virtual simulations.

The exhibition is so popular that places need to be booked before visiting.

160 scholars who have worked together on this project will also have a TV channel up and running after the hajj season passes. They also plan to establish a university.

The museum, found on the road to Taif, has an exhibition about the universe and creation at its entrance. It also contains information about Allah, the Qur’an and Hadith (traditions and teachings of the Prophet).

Inside the museum, a variety information regarding the aspects about the Prophet’s life can be found, including information about his male, female and child companions, his immediate family, his family tree, his manners, his physical appearance, his property, his running of state affairs and the places he lived and visited.

The current minister of religious affairs in Turkey Mehmet Gormez, the former minister Ali Bardakoglu and the mayor of Istanbul Kadir Topbas are among the visitors to the museum.

The founder of the Assalaamu Aleyka Ayyuhan Nabiyyu Museum, Dr. Nasr Misfir Al-Qurayshi Al-Zahrani, explained that the main concept behind the museum was to portray the Islamic holy book and the prophet in a modern way that would reach out to the world. He noted that conquests were not the only part to the prophet’s life, and that only 5% of his book which he has based on the topic covers the subject of conquests.

Al-Zahrani also said that he would like to conduct similar projects in different parts of the world. He mentioned the importance of explaining Islam from its source in saying ‘in this project there are no personal opinions, no schools of thought, no sects, just Allah and His messenger.’ He also claimed that the biggest museum in the world solely dedicated to the biography of the Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h.) is found in the museum and that he plans to open a university.

He said that this project has been dedicated to the entire Muslim world and humanity as a whole.

http://www.worldbulletin.net/?aType=...ticleID=120487

11 October 2013

Makkah Gov. Prince Khaled Al-Faisal said 15,000 illegal pilgrims have been prevented from performing Haj because they lacked permits.

The prince, who is also the head of the Haj Central Committee, said 63 unlicensed Haj-catering companies were discovered, of which one was in the Eastern Province carrying 150 pilgrims in three buses. The prince headed the committee’s meeting on Thursday in the new government complex at the holy sites.

He said 55 persons accused of transporting illegal pilgrims were arrested and that 12,200 cars carrying Haj violators were returned. Haj regulations violators numbered 3,429 in total.

Prince Khaled inspected the holy sites and ongoing projects Thursday and was accompanied by the Haj committee’s members and senior officials from several departments.

He later inspected the Qarn Al-Manazil Miqat and was briefed on the services introduced to pilgrims there. He also inspected the forces and the ambulance centers as well as the checkpoints at Makkah's entrances and the fingerprinting system used to nab violators. He also checked preparations and facilities for hosting pilgrims in Mina and Muzdalifa.

The prince visited the projected government department complex that is being executed on an area spanning more than 2 million sq. meters at the holy sites. Departments with stations in the area will be transferred to the complex upon completion. He also launched the 14th Makkah Conference, which is being held under the auspices of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah.

The 3-day conference is organized by the Muslim World League in Makkah and is themed “Human Rights Between Shariah and International Conventions.”

http://www.arabnews.com/news/467412 11 October 2013

The United Kingdom has launched its Haj consular delegation to ensure a safe and trouble-free Haj for British pilgrims.

A British Embassy official in Riyadh told Arab News that the 15th Haj consular delegation to accompany British pilgrims to Saudi Arabia was launched by Baroness Warsi, senior minister of State, and Mark Simmonds, minister for Consular Services in the UK.

In a joint statement on the occasion, the ministers said: “We understand how deeply important Haj is for the British Muslim community and as such, we are sending a Haj consular delegation to the Kingdom once again. Saudi Arabia provides excellent facilities and services to pilgrims and we would like to thank Saudi Arabia for everything it does for British pilgrims during Haj.”
Both ministers said elaborate arrangements had been made for a safe and trouble-free Haj.

Simmonds said: “We are absolutely committed to providing consular services to British pilgrims during Haj.

We have consular officers on the ground in Makkah and Jeddah. We ensure that pilgrims have travel insurance and carry copies of their passports and other important documents. I hope that all those undertaking Haj this year will have a peaceful, successful and rewarding pilgrimage.”

“Our focus is to provide support to those in need of help,” he said.

Indian team

The Indian Haj Goodwill Delegation to Saudi Arabia this year includes Ghulam Nabi Azad, the Indian minister for health and family welfare.

Azad will arrive in Jeddah on Saturday. He is a veteran politician and former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir. Azad led the Haj delegation in 1987 and had previously visited the Kingdom.

Dozens of lawmakers used to visit Saudi Arabia as part of the Indian Haj delegation, but the numbers were scaled down following a proposal from the Supreme Court to cancel sending a delegation altogether.

This year's delegation includes Ambassador Hamid Ali Rao, said Irshad Ahmad, consul for press, information and culture. Ahmad said Indian pilgrims would use the Mashaer train for the second time. Plans are in place to ensure hassle-free boarding because the Saudi authorities have reduced the number of pilgrims using train services from 500,000 to 377,000. He said the pilgrims would be grouped and sent to train stations No. 1 and 2 on a set time schedule.

Civil Defense ready

The Department of Engineering and Projects Affairs at the Civil Defense has said plans and precautions are in place for Haj. The department has set up mobile workshops equipped with technical equipment and personnel to repair malfunctions, leaks or cracks in the 180 buildings that comprise the headquarters of the Civil Defense in Makkah and Madinah.

Col. Khalid Al-Jadaan, director of the Department of Engineering and Projects Affairs, said that administrative tasks included establishing a new headquarters for civil defense forces and completing repair works, maintenance and construction on headquarter buildings.

Special divisions have been tasked with overseeing engineering design, maintaining property and supervising finance and training.

The Communications Division, which is part of the overall plan for emergency responses during the season, has set up more than 800 stations to strengthen services for telecommunications.

http://www.arabnews.com/news/467426 11 October 2013

The importance attributed to the Haj pilgrimage by South African Muslims is reflected in the availability of extensive Haj-related literature in their native language.

Haji Gassonnodein, better known as the “Carel Pilgrim,” was the first Cape Muslim to perform Haj between 1834 and 1837. His pilgrimage came within three years of the abolition of slavery at the Cape, currently the Republic of South Africa.

Mogamat Hoosain Ebrahim wrote a doctoral thesis entitled “The Transformation in the Management and Tradition of Haj at the Cape.”

A record kept by fellow Capetonian Bakkar Manuel entitled “Bakkar Manuel’s 1903 Travel and Diary,” a copy of which is kept in the Tropenmuseum in Amsterdam, gives a detailed account of his travels.

They anchored in Jeddah on Oct. 28, 1903. “Jeddah is a dangerous port,” he wrote. He had witnessed two steamboats wrecked in the harbor “with only their masts sticking out.”

They left Jeddah for Makkah on Nov. 2 shortly after Fajr prayer with 16 camels, but their caravan consisted of thousands of camels. “There are a great many camels as far as the eye can see,” he wrote.

He also wrote that he and his wife, Baheya, did not feel very happy the first few hours, as “the camel jerks very much.”

Many pilgrims used to attend Haj classes before embarking on Haj.
Some read books such as “Die Haj” (The Pilgrimage), written in Afrikaans in the 1930s by Shaykh Achmat Behardien.

In the 1940s, Shaykh Ismail Hanif wrote a book entitled “The Haj and Umrah,” also in Afrikaans, especially for his Haj students.

Imam Ismail Johnstone wrote a two-part book entitled “Die Gajj en die Oemroh” (The Haj and Umrah pilgrimage) in Afrikaans and in Arabic.

The “toering” (a conical straw hat) was the typical headgear of male Muslims in the 19th century. This was replaced with a red or black fez with a tassel it if the wearer had performed Haj. Women wore a gold pattern band under their scarves. Nowadays, white skullcaps have replaced the fezzes.

http://www.arabnews.com/news/467415

11 Oct 2013

JEDDAH — All pilgrims who came under the government schemes from India and Pakistan will get to use the Mashair train facility for this Haj while some pilgrims from Bangladesh and Sri Lanka will also be able to use the facility.

Speaking to Saudi Gazette, consuls general and Haj consuls of these four countries said on Thursday that this year their Haj operation is smooth and peaceful and the 20 percent cut in quota announced by the Saudi authorities after making all the preparations was a blessing in disguise with regard to further improving the services.

There were no major incidents or complaints reported so far. Several leaders and prominent figures from these countries are also performing Haj and they include Pakistan’s President Mamnoon Hussain, Minister of Religious Affairs Sardar Mohammed Yousef, India’s Minister of Health and Family Welfare Ghulam Nabi Azad and Bangladesh Supreme Court Chief Justice Md. Muzammel Hossain. There are also pilgrims who arrived as guests of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah and some ministries.

All Indian pilgrims who came under the country’s Central Haj Committee will get access to Mashair train facility, according to Indian Consul General Faiz Ahmed Kidwai. “We are extremely thankful to the Saudi Ministry of Haj and the South Asian Tawafa Organization for agreeing to our demand. We are now awaiting train tickets for the pilgrims,” he said.

Kidwai said all preparations are on track for the movement of pilgrims to Mina on Saturday evening. He said the Indian mission’s Haj operation plan is moving smoothly and there were no incidents or major complaints reported so far.

Indian Haj Consul Sheikh Muhammad Noor Rahman said that there are 34 maktabs (offices of mutawwif) for Indians pilgrims. “All pilgrims under 20 maktabs will use Mashair station No. 2 while the remaining pilgrims will use station No. 1.”

He said that a total of 136,020 Indian pilgrims are performing Haj this year, including 121,420 traveling under the Haj committee and 14,600 under private groups.

A Saudi Arabian Airlines plane, carrying 266 pilgrims, from Jaipur landed at Jeddah Haj Terminal on Wednesday and this was the last group of Indian pilgrims. A total of 61,000 pilgrims arrived in Jeddah and 60,800 in Madinah. Those pilgrims who arrived in Jeddah will visit Madinah only after Haj. Rahman said that so far 51 Indian pilgrims died, of these 50 died of natural causes.

According to the consul, Indian Hajis will get tents at three locations in Mina. One is at Souk Al-Arab and Al-Jawhara Street area near Jamarat. The other two areas are near New Mina Hospital Street, and Royal Palace Street (King Abdul Aziz Street).

“Pilgrims under 18 maktabs will stay back in Mina on Dhul Hijja 12 and leave Mina only after the stoning ritual at Jamarat the following afternoon. If more pilgrims want to stay back, we will provide them transportation and other required facilities,” he said, adding that notices were placed at the residential buildings of pilgrims to inform them about the arrangements in this regard.

Saudi authorities had directed earlier that a sizable number of pilgrims should stay back in Mina on Dhul Hijja 12, and this directive could be part of measures to avoid overcrowding in the Grand Mosque in the wake of space constraints due to the expansion of the mataf (area for circumambulation around Holy Kaaba).

All our arrangements are well in place for the Haj said Pakistan's Consul General Aftab Ahmed Khokhar. “The overall condition of pilgrims is satisfactory in general and there were only very few complaints with the regard to the facilities and services, including transportation and accommodation,” he said.

Syed Abu Akif, director general of the Pakistan Haj Mission, said that with the arrival of the last flight on Thursday, a total of 143,368 Pakistani Haj pilgrims have come, of which 85,696 are in the government scheme and the remaining 57,672 under 730 Haj group operators (HGOs). A total of 178 flight services were operated to Jeddah and Madinah from Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Peshawar, Sukkur, Sialkot, Quetta, Multan and Faisalabad.

He said Pakistan President Mamnoon Hussain arrived in Madinah to visit the Prophet’s Mosque.

A total of 25 pilgrims died as of Thursday and no cases of accident deaths or injuries have been reported. About 83,455 pilgrims received treatment at outpatient clinics. Out of the 348 pilgrims admitted to the Haj mission hospitals, 304 were discharged.

“There are a total of 1,738 welfare staff, including 471-member medical mission, 696 local volunteers, 301 Haj assistants, and 270 seasonal staffers to serve the pilgrims. We have received only around 1,300 complaints and this was much lower compared to previous years,” he said.

Md. Nazmul Islam, consul general of Bangladesh, said that his country’s Haj operation is smooth and peaceful. “There have been no major problems and complaints reported so far,” said Nazmul, who has been serving as the consul general since 2010. A total of 90,000 Bangladeshi pilgrims arrived this year, of which Biman transported half while the rest was carried by Saudia.

A total of 25 pilgrims died and all had natural deaths. “For the first time, we have arranged a separate building for healthcare of pilgrims. There is a 15-bed hospital in Makkah and a five-bed facility in Madinah. There are over 600 staffers and seasonal workers to serve the pilgrims, and they included 70 doctors and 20 nurses,” he added.

Sri Lanka Consul General Dr. Adambawa Uthumalebbe said a total of 2,400 pilgrims have arrived to perform Haj this year. The last flight carrying 200 pilgrims arrived in Jeddah on Thursday. There were no cases of death or accident injuries reported so far. There are no pilgrims in hospitals now.

Sri Lanka pilgrims are under 15 muallims this time. He noted that in Sri Lanka the Haj tour operation is managed by the private sector. The country’s Muslim Cultural Department divides the Haj quota among the licensed operators. The government makes available the required facilities for them. “Our duty is only to oversee them and prevent any exploitation. The Consulate staff handles it very well,” he added.

http://www.saudigazette.com.sa/index...20131011183323
10 October 2013

MAKKAH — The Civil Defense has identified 120 locations hazardous to pilgrims and banned Hajis from staying in these locations.

Head of the Civil Defense Lt. Gen. Saad Al-Tuwaijri said these locations were carefully identified and all safety patrols were informed to ensure they are not being used.

He said that there are many hazards in these locations caused by natural phenomena such as rain, floods, wind, thunder and dust storms.

Such hazards may increase during one season and recede during another according to climatic conditions.

He added that other hazards are caused by the gathering of a huge number of pilgrims in certain confined areas. Such hazards include crowding, spread of diseases and environmental pollution.

A third type of hazard is caused by the large expansion projects in Makkah, especially at the Grand Mosque.

The Civil Defense adapts to any changes in the severity of these hazards, he said. Al-Tuwaijri said there are 13 possible hazards that could affect pilgrims performing Haj and this year overcrowding in the Grand Mosque and the central area is the Civil Defense’s main priority.

The Civil Defense is ready to deal with all possible hazards, even those that are remotely possible, he claimed. He confirmed that all Civil Defense units are provided with the necessary training to carry out their duties.

The training includes an explanation of the equipment used, required coordination with other units, and the proper way to deal with the different types of hazards.

Al-Tuwaijri explained that different hazards require the use of different equipment. For example, high-level fires require the use of ladders that can reach 60-meter high floors.

These ladders are equipped with hydraulic lifts to assist in the efforts of rescuing trapped people. In addition, large crowds in the central area have led to the Civil Defense using small firefighting and rescue vehicles.

This year, the Civil Defense will utilize for the first time quad-bikes that are equipped with water and foam tanks to attend to small fires in buses, vehicles, and small premises such as restaurants. He added that, this year, 200 new pieces of equipment would be used during Haj.

The equipment includes search and rescue equipment in the event of building collapses or to traverse mountainous areas, in addition to vehicles that can handle dangerous materials.

He said Civil Defense centers are located in carefully designated areas that are most prone to hazards to minimize the time it takes for officers to reach accident scenes.

There are 25 Civil Defense teams inside and around the Grand Mosque to carry out rescue operations and provide medical assistance as needed. These teams are increased to 35 during peak hours. There are more than 80 centers along the Haj routes, along with 250 firefighting units and 2,500 patrols to monitor safety conditions in pilgrim housing.

Civil Defense teams are spread across the holy site of Arafat with a maximum of 90 meters between them. He pointed out that pilgrim accommodation buildings are inspected by the Civil Defense and approved consultancy offices issue reports on them. Buildings that do not meet safety requirements will have their power and water disconnected.

Al-Tuwaijri said gas cylinders are banned at the holy sites and violators will be fined immediately.

Pilgrim buses may be used as temporary emergency shelters at Arafat and CCTV will be used to transmit live pictures of pilgrim movements to officials.

http://www.saudigazette.com.sa/index...20131011183324 11 October 2013

JEDDAH — A Dubai-based start-up has launched the regions’ first smartphone app dedicated to supporting millions during the Haj pilgrimage.

With key features that can run without a live Internet connection, Hajjnet’s app HajjSalam offers today’s pilgrims real-time, location and process based support allowing them to be more focused on the spiritual aspects of Haj, avoid possible pitfalls and make the experience more safe and personal.

The app provides real-time guidance for every step of the Haj. Features include prompting pilgrims to read or hear the appropriate prayers at the right time and place, counting the number of circuits made around the Holy Kaaba as well as full camera, map and social media integration. The mapping features of HajjSalam are extremely important to pilgrims with key locations plotted on the app’s map, which is equipped with full GPS functionality.

HajjSalam has a special feature that allows them to tag their tent in the app’s map so they can easily find it when returning to Mina, which is the largest temporary city in the world and the site where millions of pilgrims stay for two of the five nights.

Today’s pilgrims can now see where they are in relation to the key landmarks and routes and also know what is around them and even find the nearest mosque or hospital on the app’s map.

Traditional trips to Haj involved pilgrims carrying pages of paper full of personal supplications (duas) or prayers for loved ones.

One of HajjSalam’s key features allows pilgrims to create and manage a personal list that is always accessible from the app’s toolbar.

A packing list helps them prepare for the journey and not forget essential items; while a digital journal helps them record and share personal moments and photos with loved ones.

Instructional videos are also available on how and when to wear the ihram, the garments pilgrims must wear before performing Haj or Umrah.

The app also has a process overview that allows pilgrims to know exactly where they are in the Haj process.

Ali Dabaja, founder and CEO of Hajjnet, said: “The Haj and Umrah pilgrimages are so extremely important to many of us, not only in the Gulf region, but all over the world.

“There was a tremendous need for an app that could support pilgrims from the moment they set about preparing throughout every step of the pilgrimage.

“There were so many places in the process that we found opportunities to use smartphone technology to assist in a really impactful way.

“Our goal is to help Muslims focus on the spiritual aspects of Haj by relieving some of the pressure of the process and logistical challenges that cause so many issues.” Dabaja founded Hajjnet in January 2012, inspired by the many stories of the glory of the Haj pilgrimage and its challenges.

The ex-banker seeks to make Islamic faith fulfillment and travel more informed and accessible.

HajjSalam is available for a limited time as a free download on the iPhone, and soon on Android. It can be found at www.hajjnet.com/hajj.

http://www.saudigazette.com.sa/index...20131011183322

12 October 2013

The King ordered the opening of Phase I of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques project to upgrade the capacity of mataf (circumambulation of the Kaaba area) that includes the following:

The central area can now hold 20,000 pilgrims per hour,
the ground floor can accommodate 5,000 perambulators per hour,
first floor — 15,000 perambulators per hour,
rooftop — 30,000 perambulators per hour and
the temporary mataf area at a capacity of 2,000 perambulators per hour.

http://www.saudigazette.com.sa/index...20131012183490