On Thursday, June 22, 2023, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah successfully hosted its 47th Symposium on Hajj, as announced by Muhammad Ahmad Musa, Principal Information Officer of the Makkah Operations Office.
Themed “The Juriprudence of Ease in Hajj,” the grand symposium took place in Jeddah with some specific objectives.
According to a statement signed by Muhammad Ahmad Musa,
Principal Information officer,
Makkah Operations Office, on Thursday June 22, 2023, the symposium will strengthen the capacity of Muslims to understand, collaborate, and unite as global pilgrims through the Hajj experience.
“It aimed to create an environment conducive to performing Hajj with ease and relative comfort, providing an intellectual platform for discussions on pressing issues that may affect pilgrims’ spiritual and religious journeys during the rituals in the holy places,” the statement read.
It added that the symposium also aimed at encouraging constructive dialogues, practical actions, and the development of innovative approaches to performing Hajj rituals.”
Other objectives are to embrace and integrate a culture of innovation and technology to enhance the experience of every pilgrim.
The symposium also aimed to promote innovative technologies and practices that would enhance the safety, comfort, and efficiency of the pilgrimage.
The event was inaugurated by Dr. Tawfiq Al Rabiah, the Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, and saw the presence of esteemed individuals, including Sheikh Dr. Abdurrahman Al Sudais, the President of the Commission for the Two Holy Mosques and Chief Imam of the Makkah Grand Mosque, as well as heads of security, civil defense, and Mashaer provinces. Notable attendees also included the Muftis of Tunisia, Uzbekistan, and Indonesia.
During the symposium, several discussion sessions took place, addressing various aspects of the Hajj.
The focal point of these discussions revolved around the importance of collaboration and cooperation among Hajj nations and stakeholders in the industry to ensure a smooth and safe pilgrimage experience for all participants.
The logistics involved in hosting approximately three million people from different countries and diverse cultures, all dressed similarly and aiming to perform the same acts of worship, necessitates a comprehensive approach with meticulous planning involving various sectors of the Saudi Arabian ecosystem.
To ensure a hassle-free Hajj, the symposium emphasized the utilization of the ease provided by the Shariah in facilitating the movement of pilgrims to different locations within the span of five days.
An exhibition showcasing the latest technologies and initiatives in the Hajj industry was one of the highlights of the symposium, featuring various organizations specializing in Hajj-related services.
Representing Nigeria at the event was the Consulate-General led by Ambassador Bello Hussain Kazaure, accompanied by a delegation from NAHCON (National Hajj Commission of Nigeria) headed by Alhaji Alidu Shutti, Deputy Makkah Coordinator.
The delegation also included Dr. Aliyu Tanko from the Company of Mutawwif Liason, Alhaji Ishaq Ja’e as the Assistant Saudi Liason Officer, and Abdurrahman from the Makkah Office Secretariat.
