28/04/2024
3492 times read
28/04/2024
3492 times read
KUWAIT CITY, April 28: Preparations for the Hajj season have reached their final stages, with the focus on readying buildings in Mina and Arafat for the departure of Kuwaiti Hajj groups from the Holy Lands, reports Al-Qabas daily. Setting up tents, headquarters, and cleaning designated areas for the Kuwaiti Hajj delegation has commenced, with officials from the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs supervising the process and taking note of lessons learned from the previous year to ensure a smoother Hajj season this year.
An official source from the Ministry confirmed that residential buildings such as hotels and other accommodations are ready to receive pilgrims for this season. Transportation and other contracts for Kuwaiti Hajj caravans and companies have also been finalized, along with the handover of camps in Mina and Arafat. In the event of cancellations, an alternative batch has been prepared, especially for those who canceled their Hajj this season. If an elderly person cancels his Hajj, the accompanying family’s acceptance will also be canceled, as their acceptance was contingent upon the elderly person’s Hajj.
Approval for increasing the quota for Kuwaiti pilgrims has not been granted by Saudi authorities yet, and three caravans have withdrawn from participating in this year’s Hajj season. Hajj prices for caravans this year vary depending on the room type, starting at 1,590 dinars for a quadruple room and reaching up to 12,000 dinars for a single VIP room. The source emphasized the importance of avoiding fake caravans offering reduced prices, as they expose pilgrims to legal accountability and may hinder their ability to perform Hajj. Religious guides will be instructed to educate pilgrims about national unity and discourage the spread of rumors, tribalism, and sectarianism. In other news, the number of Umrah pilgrims since the beginning of the season has reached 24,000, with 416 land trips recorded. The Ministry of Interior and those in charge of the Salmi border center have been praised for their efforts and cooperation in facilitating pilgrims’ trips through the port.