Saudi Arabia Enhances Hajj Infrastructure and Increases Pakistan’s Pilgrim Quota
Key Developments:
- New Resting Areas for Pilgrims
- Saudi authorities are setting up shaded rest zones in Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah to improve pilgrim comfort during Hajj.
- 50,000 sqm of covered walkways in Mina and 60,000 sqm of shelters with misting fans near Jabal al-Rahmah (Mount Arafat) will help protect pilgrims from extreme heat.
- The upgrades aim to address concerns over high temperatures and overcrowding during the pilgrimage.
- Saudi Arabia Increases Pakistan’s Hajj Quota by 10,000
- The decision follows a request by Pakistan’s Deputy PM Ishaq Dar during talks with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan.
- The additional slots will help reduce waiting lists, as thousands of Pakistani applicants await approval.
- Pakistani officials hailed the move as a sign of strong bilateral relations and Saudi Arabia’s support for Pakistani pilgrims.
Why It Matters:
- Enhanced Safety: The new infrastructure aims to minimize heat-related risks and improve crowd management.
- Diplomatic Boost: The quota increase underscores deepening Saudi-Pakistan ties and facilitates more pilgrims from Pakistan.
What’s Next?
With Hajj 2024 approaching, Saudi authorities continue logistical preparations, while Pakistan processes additional pilgrims under the expanded quota.
