Saudi Gazette Report

MINA — Minister of Hajj and Umrah Tawfiq Al-Rabiah and Minister of Health Fahad AlJalajel visited Arafat on Wednesday to inspect the elaborate arrangements and preparations made to extend the best possible services and facilities for the Hajj pilgrims who head to the vast plains of Arafat on Thursday for performing the ritual of wuqoof Arafat, the climax of Hajj.

Al-Rabiah carried out a field inspection tour of various locations within the holy sites, as part of the ongoing preparations for the Hajj 2025. He examined readiness of pilgrims’ camps, facilities, and services before pilgrims commence their movement to Arafat for the most important ritual of Hajj.

The tour included a detailed field visit to assess Arafat’s readiness to receive pilgrims. The minister reviewed the efficiency of the camps, accommodation facilities, and logistical services, as well as the integrated health, technical, and service equipment—all to guarantee the smooth and safe performance of rituals.

Al-Rabiah also closely followed the progress of the shading and cooling project for the courtyards surrounding the Namirah Mosque. This project stands as one of the unique initiatives dedicated to improving the environment in Arafat, covering an area of 85,000 square meters. It incorporates 320 canopies and 350 misting fans to provide a pleasant atmosphere, in addition to the planting of 2,000 trees in the eastern courtyards to expand vegetation cover. A comprehensive infrastructure, including water and electricity networks, has been prepared to ensure the project’s sustainable operation.

Al-Rabiah emphasized the crucial importance of integrating efforts among all participating entities and operating according to the highest standards of operational efficiency to serve the pilgrims. He stated that these actions are in direct implementation of the directives of the wise leadership, aspiring to achieve a model Hajj season that reflects the Kingdom’s distinguished position and leadership in managing this grand ritual.

Minister of Health Fahad Al-Jalajel visited several field health units operated in collaboration with health associations in Arafat. This visit was part of his inspection tour to assess the readiness of health services for pilgrims during the Hajj season 2025.

Al-Jalajel reviewed the medical units' equipment and the health teams' preparations to ensure the delivery of health services at the highest efficiency. This aligns with the objectives of the Health Sector Transformation Program and the Pilgrim Experience Program under Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to enable pilgrims to perform their rituals in a healthy and tranquil environment.