King Salman to host 1,000 Palestinian pilgrims for free Hajj journey
Initiative reflects commitment to supporting Palestinians and strengthening Islamic unity
Dubai: King Salman bin Abdulaziz of Saudi Arabia has ordered that 1,000 Palestinians from the families of martyrs, prisoners, and the wounded be hosted at his personal expense to perform Hajj this year.
The move comes as part of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Guests Program for Hajj, Umrah, and Visit, administered by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance.
Sheikh Abdullatif Al Sheikh, Minister of Islamic Affairs and supervisor of the programme, thanked King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for what he described as a generous gesture.
He said the initiative reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to supporting the Palestinian people and strengthening Islamic unity.
Al Sheikh said the ministry has already begun implementing a comprehensive plan to provide all necessary services for the pilgrims, from their departure until their return, ensuring a smooth stay in Mecca and Medina.
Since its launch in 1996, the program has hosted over 64,000 pilgrims from various countries, underscoring Saudi Arabia’s ongoing role in serving Muslims and its place as the spiritual center of the Islamic world.
-- Huda Ata is an independent writer based in the UAE
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