The first batch of pilgrims for this year’s Hajj arrived in Saudi Arabia on Sunday, the country’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announced.
The Saudi health ministry has advised individuals intending to participate in the Hajj pilgrimage this year to ensure they receive all necessary vaccinations. To be eligible for the Hajj in 2023, Muslims must have received a complete COVID-19 vaccination, consisting of two doses and a booster shot. In addition to COVID-19 vaccination, seasonal influenza, and Meningococcal Meningitis should also be taken at least 10 days before Hajj.
Egyptian national flag carrier, EgyptAir, announced that holders of visit visas of all kinds should not enter the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia during the Hajj season 1444/2023.
The company asked all tourism companies and travel agents not to issue tickets or accept visas of all kinds on flights heading to Jeddah/Madinah, starting from Tuesday, May 30, 2023, until Wednesday, June 28, 2023.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah shared the first photos of Hajj pilgrims on its Twitter account.
Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia, will take place from June 26 to July 1, 2023. And Saudi Arabia is expected to receive over 2 million pilgrims during the Hajj season this year.
In September 2022, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has launched Nusuk, the official Saudi integrated digital platform that offers all pilgrims and visitors an easy-to-use planning gateway for their journeys to Makkah and Madinah. This e-platform aims to enhance the experience of Muslims visiting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia from all over the world and facilitate the arrival procedures for visitors to perform Umrah. With Nusuk, travelers from all over the world can easily organize their entire visit, from applying for an eVisa to booking hotels and flights. For more information visit nusuk.sa
Hajj is the annual Islamic pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia. It is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is considered a religious duty for Muslims who are physically and financially capable of undertaking the journey. Every adult Muslim must make at least once in their lifetime if they have the means.
The Hajj involves a series of rituals, including circumambulating the Kaaba, performing certain prayers and supplications, and participating in symbolic acts that commemorate events in Islamic history. The pilgrimage is a significant event for Muslims worldwide and is meant to foster spiritual purification, unity, and a sense of equality among believers.
(AA)
