JEDDAH: The deputy minister of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance said the ministry has appointed specialized committees to monitor and implement Hajj activities.
Tawfiq bin Abdul Aziz Al-Sudairi, who is also vice chairman of the Supreme Hajj Committee, added that the ministry is keen to further develop its projects, means of communication and awareness programs pertaining to the pilgrimage.
More than 2,000 TV and radio episodes have been produced in 12 languages to raise awareness among pilgrims; they will be broadcast via satellite, on Saudi Arabian Airways and other Arab airlines, and on ships and buses transporting pilgrims, he said.
The ministry is also raising awareness via its website and WhatsApp messages.
Its preachers and awareness centers are located at the holy sites in Makkah and Madinah, and at sea, air and land entry points to the Kingdom, answering Hajj-related questions and handing pilgrims flyers on how to perform their rites and prayers. Its awareness efforts will continue throughout this Hajj season.
Al-Sudairi said the ministry is building the capacities of its awareness staff by organizing intensive training sessions. He commended its preachers for their efforts and knowledge.
A free hotline has been established to answer Hajj-related questions (8002451000), as well as an e-service available in eight languages.
Saudi Islamic Affairs Ministry appoints special Hajj committees
Saudi Islamic Affairs Ministry appoints special Hajj committees
King Abdulaziz Foundation reveals rare images from king’s 1916 Basra visit
- Photographs form part of a wider collection documented by British photographer Gertrude Bell
RIYADH: The King Abdulaziz Foundation has revealed archival photographs documenting King Abdulaziz’s tour of the outskirts of Basra in 1916, a visit that came at an early stage of his efforts to build regional relationships.
One of the photographs, taken by British photographer Gertrude Bell, shows King Abdulaziz standing with his men in the Basra desert, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The image reflects his early political and diplomatic engagement in the region, as he sought to strengthen ties with neighboring areas and engage with the wider Arab and international community, SPA added.
The photograph forms part of a wider collection documented by Bell, which records key developments and transformations across the Arabian Peninsula during the early 20th century.
The Basra visit holds particular significance in King Abdulaziz’s journey as a unifying leader.
Rather than crossing borders in pursuit of power, the visit reflected an approach focused on stability, cooperation and long-term regional harmony, laying the groundwork for a leadership style defined by pragmatism and openness, SPA said.
