KING SALMAN to host 1,300 pilgrims from 90 countries for Hajj 2023
1 min read
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s King Salman issued a directive on Saturday to host 1,300 pilgrims from more than 90 countries to perform this year’s Hajj.
The decision comes as part of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Guests Program for Hajj and Umrah, which covers the pilgrimage expenses of selected participants, state news agency SPA reported.
Sheikh Abdullatif Al-Asheikh, Saudi Islamic affairs minister and the program’s general supervisor, said the annual program reflects the Kingdom’s efforts to serve Muslims and deepen relations with other Islamic nations.
“The generous program, rolled out every year at the expense of the Saudi government, enables thousands of Muslims from all over the world to perform Hajj under an organized system that offers top-class services,” said Al-Asheikh in a statement published on SPA.
He added the ministry would coordinate with Saudi embassies and the religious attaches abroad to select participants and facilitate visa procedures.
“The ministry would supervise the trip of pilgrims from their departure from their own countries until they complete Hajj rituals,” the minister said.
He added that the program gives the chance for Muslims who were not selected in previous years to fulfill their dreams of performing Hajj, as the ministry seeks to expand the scope of nationalities every year. Earlier, King Salman issued a directive to host 1,000 Palestinians pilgrims to participate in this year’s Hajj season from the families of martyrs, injured and captives.