The UAE Hajj Affairs Office has announced that it has commenced a trial run for the state’s camps in Mina and Arafat, fully equipped with all necessary facilities and services, in preparation for welcoming the pilgrims during the current Hajj season.
The office confirmed that the preparations included all essential comfort and safety requirements for the 6,228 pilgrims, covering infrastructure, advanced air conditioning systems, catering provisions, and medical and administrative service facilities, all adhering to the highest approved standards. This aims to ensure a smooth and safe Hajj journey for the nation’s worshippers.
This year’s enhancements included the construction of a mosque accommodating over 400 pilgrims, along with designated prayer areas in all Arafat camps equipped with high-quality audio and visual systems to broadcast the sermon and prayers. Additionally, all camps are fitted with highly efficient air conditioning systems, while pathways are shaded and adorned with trees, including modern fans with misting systems to mitigate high temperatures and protect pilgrims from heat-related illnesses.
Dr. Omar Habtoor Al Dhaheri, Chairman of the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Awqaf, and Zakat, and head of the UAE Hajj Affairs Office, emphasized ongoing efforts to provide a conducive environment for the nation’s pilgrims to perform their rituals. He stated that the office completed all camp preparations in record time to ensure a comfortable and secure environment for the pilgrims during their rites. This year, the office focused on enhancing facilities and services to ensure that pilgrims can fulfill their duties with peace of mind and ease.
He added, “We value the close cooperation with the relevant authorities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and we are working under a comprehensive plan that reflects the UAE’s commendable image in caring for its pilgrims, achieving the highest levels of satisfaction and safety.” The office continues its ground preparations to ensure smooth crowd control and manage movement within the holy sites, thereby offering exemplary services that ensure the comfort and safety of the UAE pilgrims.
Religious Services
Additionally, the UAE Hajj Affairs Office announced an upgrade to its religious guidance and fatwa services in preparation for the upcoming Hajj rites. This is part of a comprehensive plan designed to enhance religious awareness and provide necessary legal support to the nation’s pilgrims.
The office highlighted that its guidance and fatwa committee has appointed 40 qualified scholars to accompany the Emirati Hajj groups, ensuring that each group is supported by at least one qualified guide, alongside a team of female scholars and legal advisors to offer spiritual guidance tailored to women’s needs and address their inquiries. Four dedicated hotlines have been established for immediate responses to pilgrims’ questions, ensuring timely legal opinions. The hotlines are: 00966536475610, 00966535864386, 00966535247483, and the number 00966506781418 is specifically for women.
A unified guidance plan has also been prepared for the field staff, encompassing lectures, legal sessions, and awareness seminars, delivered directly to the pilgrims or broadcast via a “unified transmission” system in the holy sites, aiming to ensure that all pilgrims receive pertinent messages at the appropriate time and place.
In line with digital transformation, many awareness services have been translated into interactive online platforms to ensure accessibility for pilgrims at any time and place. Moreover, a pilgrimage kit has been distributed to UAE pilgrims, containing comprehensive religious and educational materials designed to enhance their awareness and education throughout the various stages of their rituals.
The UAE Hajj Affairs Office continues its efforts to develop its field and religious services, aiming to provide the highest levels of comfort and spiritual support to the pilgrims, aligning with the nation’s vision of delivering comprehensive and modern Hajj services.