Saudi Gazette report

JEDDAH — Minister of Hajj and Umrah Tawfiq Al-Rabiah urged pilgrims to remain within their designated camps from 10 am to 4 pm to prevent heat exhaustion, citing the high temperatures expected on the Day of Arafat. He warned that random group walking poses a significant threat to the flow of crowds and the safety of pilgrims.

The minister made the remarks during a meeting with heads of Hajj missions from various countries, held on the sidelines of the 49th Grand Hajj Symposium, which concluded in Jeddah on Sunday.

Al-Rabiah directed the Hajj affairs offices to strictly follow regulations with regard to the movement of pilgrims within the holy sites, emphasizing pilgrims' safety and optimal ritual performance. The minister emphasized the importance of using designated transportation from Arafat to Muzdalifah rather than walking. He stressed that dispatch and transport plans are essential for organizing crowd movement and guaranteeing safety, deeming adherence a collective responsibility.

Al-Rabiah underscored the pivotal role of the Nusuk card, mandating its use for accessing the Grand Mosque, holy sites, or public transportation. He affirmed the card is now a key regulatory tool for performing rituals and preventing violations.

The minister said that this year will see a significant intensification of Hajj permit verification to ensure pilgrim safety and a complete Hajj experience, all within meticulous organization befitting the sanctity and grandeur of the occasion.