Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Makkah, is a massive exercise involving the movement of more than 2 million Muslims within 5 days. To host an event of this magnitude every year is no small feat. Yet the Government of Saudi Arabia perfectly executes this responsibility, continuously improving.
The preparations for next year’s Hajj begin soon after the completion of the previous Hajj. To this end, many agencies and organizations collaborate, namely, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, the Ministry of Information, and the Ministry of Health.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is responsible for developing plans, implementing, and supervising the services for the pilgrims. It arranges and manages the accommodation in the Mina area where more than 100,000 air-conditioned tents are set up temporarily. The pilgrims stay here for the most part of their journey. The ministry also coordinates with about two hundred catering companies to provide visitors with three fresh meals every day.
The Ministry of Interior is responsible for the safety and security of the “Guests of the Merciful”, a term used affectionately for these pilgrims. Measures are taken to prevent fires and avoid accidents. They spread awareness and issue instructions to limit such incidents in all areas.
The Ministry of Islamic Affairs oversees that the Hajj is performed according to the proper religious guidelines. They issue pamphlets, run mobile apps, and send qualified clerics to dispense knowledge about all rituals of Hajj and how they are performed at every site.
The Hajj is shown through live broadcasts in all parts of the Muslim world. This task comes under the authority of the Ministry of Information. Since Muslims come from various regions and countries, they speak many languages. The Hajj sermon is delivered in Arabic but translated into many languages in real time. Anyone can hear it on the radio, social media, or Hajj apps. The ministry also takes care of this matter.
The Ministry of Health plays a crucial role. It provides medical facilities that include field clinics, emergency care, and hospital care. Doctors as well as volunteers are deployed in great numbers. Awareness of safe healthy practices is spread. The sick are given timely medical care.
The Saudi Food and Drug Authority takes care of food and medication needed. The products coming through ports, food establishments, and transport companies are inspected.
For many Muslims, Hajj is a once-in-a-lifetime worship experience and the Saudi government facilitates Hajj to make it smooth and safe for everyone. Back in time, this journey involved the loss of loved ones, disasters, stampedes, and other hardships. Over the years, it has been made very convenient and safe so people can focus more on the spiritual aspect. Next time you go for Hajj, remember to pray for all those personnel who come together and work hard to make it a memorable undertaking for you.
Source: hajjbehindthescene
