The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is preparing for the upcoming Hajj 2024 pilgrimage season in 2024, with a plan to accommodate up to 2 million Muslim pilgrims in Mecca. This marks a significant increase from the 1.8 million pilgrims who attended last year’s Hajj season, which saw the return of numbers to pre-epidemic levels.
Aiming for Expansion for Hajj 2024
Osama Zaytuni, the spokesman for the Mecca Mayoralty, revealed that the city’s authorities are aiming to license 4,000 buildings, comprising nearly 500,000 rooms, to accommodate around 2 million Hajj pilgrims. As of now, 1,000 buildings have been licensed to house pilgrims in Mecca, known as the Holy Capital.
“We expect an increase in the number (of pilgrims) this year compared to last year,” Zaytuni told Saudi news TV Al Ekhbariya. He also added that applications for permits are on the rise and there is room to obtain permits until the end of Rajab, the current lunar Islamic month expected to end on February 10.
A New Strategy for Hajj
Saudi Arabia has initiated early arrangements for the upcoming Hajj in June, implementing a fresh strategy and kicking off related operations at the beginning of this month. The new strategy involves a change in the allocation of places for different countries at the holy sites during the Hajj season.
According to the new rules set by Saudi authorities, no specific places would be allotted anymore for countries at the holy sites in the new Hajj season. Instead, the allocation of spaces for various countries will be determined based on the completion of contractual agreements.
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“The country that concludes early contracts will be given the priority in taking the appropriate places in the holy places,” said Saudi Ministry of Hajj Tawfiq Al Rabiah. This new mechanism aims at facilitating preparations for Hajj, an obligatory Islamic duty.
Looking Forward
As the Kingdom prepares for the Hajj 2024, the world watches with anticipation. The new strategy and the expansion plans signify a new era of pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, promising a more organized and comfortable experience for the faithful from around the globe. It is indeed a testament to Saudi Arabia’s commitment to facilitating the Hajj pilgrimage, one of the five pillars of Islam, and serving the Muslim Ummah.
Here are some tips for first-time Hajj pilgrims:
- Turn to Allah for Guidance: Begin your Hajj journey with sincere prayers, seeking Allah’s guidance and assistance throughout. Ask for success in your pilgrimage.
- Save Money the Halal Way: Prepare financially for Hajj by saving money through lawful means. Make sure you can support your family while you’re away and that your funds are earned in accordance with Islamic principles.
- Choose a Hajj Package Wisely: Opt for a Hajj package that suits your needs. Seek the help of a trustworthy travel agent to find the best option for your pilgrimage.
- Get Physically and Spiritually Ready: Hajj involves walking in the heat and sometimes fasting. Get physically prepared by eating well and staying active before you leave. This will help you maintain your energy during the journey.
- Consult with Your Doctor: Before traveling, visit your doctor for advice, vaccinations, and health updates. Make sure you get all the necessary vaccinations, including those for Meningitis and influenza.
- Learn about Hajj Rituals: Read brochures, booklets, and watch educational films about Hajj in your preferred language before reaching the Kingdom. Familiarize yourself with the rituals and procedures.
- Know Your Limits: If it’s your first Hajj and you are not experienced, be realistic about what you can handle. Stick to a consistent sleep schedule, rest well, and be prepared for the responsibilities of Hajj to increase your chances of success.
