Ahead Of The Peak Of Hajj, Saudi Arabian Authorities Urge Pilgrims To Avoid Crowds To Stay Hydrated

An aerial photo illustration of the Grand Mosque area, Mecca. (Wikimedia Commons/saudipics)

JAKARTA - The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (MOHU) on Tuesday launched a campaign called 'Hajj Begins With You', in collaboration with the General Authority for Endowments.

Published in seven languages on its social media platforms, the video guides pilgrims on the general behavior to follow during this year's Hajj.

According to The National News July 6, pilgrims are advised to carry essential items neatly in their bags and wear their ihram (religious dress) in the correct manner to ensure they remain comfortable.

Next, pilgrims are asked to remain patient, prevent crowds, stay in the shade as long as possible, to stay hydrated and take medication on time.

The video contains corrective steps for incorrect Hajj practices, including tips for acceptable etiquette and behavior at the holy sites while in Saudi Arabia.

In addition, pilgrims are advised to pay attention to the instructions and guidelines, which will help facilitate the pilgrim's journey, ensure comfort and make Hajj easy and comfortable for all.

Recently, Saudi Arabia's King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud underlined, serving and caring for pilgrims is the top priority of his kingdom.

For example, regarding the language barrier, where now local authorities are starting to use technology to overcome the language barrier this year.

MOHU launched 13 Hajj awareness guides translated into 14 languages featuring important health, logistical to religious information that can be easily found on the ministry's website.

Another online service, the Arafah Sermon app, will provide live translations in 10 languages. Last year's mobile translator robot, which provides services in 11 languages, is also operational.

Saudi Arabia allowed up to one million pilgrims from abroad this year, and has expanded capacity after two years of limiting the Hajj to domestic pilgrims due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dear Hajj Pilgrim #Hajj_Starts_With_You #Makkah_and_Medina_Eagerly_Await_Youpic.twitter.com/OP9QZgtAlm

— Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (@MoHU_En) July 5, 2022