MAKKAH: Munira, an 82-year-old Moroccan pilgrim, said she was grateful for advancements in travel and pilgrimage services after recently arriving in Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
She recalled that her grandfather had undertaken the pilgrimage more than 70 years ago, traveling on foot across several countries.
The journey took almost two years and was marked by immense hardship and danger.
“Since I was a child, my father would recount the story of my grandfather’s journey, always emphasizing the struggles he endured,” Munira said. “I grew up believing that Hajj required enormous effort and sacrifice.”
Reflecting on her own experience, she added: “I never imagined I would reach Makkah in just six hours, sitting comfortably on a plane.”
Munira described her departure from Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca as smooth and efficient. She completed all procedures in record time and in a “pleasant, well-organized” manner, she told the SPA.
The 82-year-old also praised the warm welcome she received upon arrival at the Makkah Route terminal, highlighting the initiative as a significant leap forward in streamlining the Hajj experience for pilgrims.
