Saudi Arabia holds international conference on Haj, Umrah services

KUALA LUMPUR - Saudi Arabia on Monday launched an international conference and exhibition aimed at gathering recommendations that serve the Haj and Umrah sector in line with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.

In a statement issued to Bernama today, the Saudi Arabia Embassy in Kuala Lumpur said the three-day event titled "Transformation Toward Innovation,” was launched by the Advisor to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and Governor of Makkah region, Prince Khalid Al-Faisal.

Held at the Jeddah Superdome by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in collaboration with the Doyof Al Rahman (Guests of Allah) Programme, the conference was attended by ministers from more than 20 countries.

According to the statement, Saudi's Haj and Umrah Minister Dr Tawfiq Fawzan Al-Rabiah in his speech at the event said Doyof Al Rahman is one of the pillars of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 as it aimed to enrich the Haj and Umrah experience.

"All targets are meant to realise one goal, that has always been the top interest of our wise leadership, which is to ensure that pilgrims and Umrah performers complete their visit and rituals with ease, comfort and tranquility,” he told the conference.

COVID-19 had a huge impact on Haj and Umrah, especially in terms of capacity and access, he said adding that Saudi Arabia has developed a mobile application that can be used during Haj and Umrah.

He said the "Eatmarna" app will help in organising access to the Two Holy Mosques and significantly reduce overcrowding.

The minister also announced the launch of a Haj and Umrah Challenge with the aim of attracting entrepreneurs, collecting creative ideas and implementing them to improve the pilgrim experience. - BERNAMA