UAE and Saudi authorities commit to collaborate in enhancing Hajj and Umrah services

The Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr Tawfiq Al-Rabiah, concluded his official UAE trip on February 15, engaging in discussions centred on fostering cooperation to streamline Umrah procedures through “Tasheer” Saudi visa centres in the emirate and the Nusuk platform.

The talks also included enabling expatriates of the UAE to register their fingerprints before travelling to the Kingdom in order to reduce the waiting period at land and air ports. Both sides also discussed raising the quality of services and shortening entry procedures.

Ensuring comfortable journey for Hajj & Umrah pilgrims

During his meeting with Omar Habtoor Al-Darei, the Executive Director of Islamic Affairs at the General Authority for Islamic Affairs and Endowments (GAIAE), the Saudi minister extended a warm welcome to pilgrims arriving from the UAE throughout the year.

Emphasising Saudi Arabia’s commitment to serving the visitors of the Grand Mosque, he highlighted efforts to elevate service standards across all facets, in an effort to ensure a comfortable experience for worshippers during their ritual observances.

Dr Al-Rabiah also inaugurated the Nusuk platform exhibition as part of his visit. Launched by the Kingdom’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in December 2022, the electronic platform provides services for both local and international pilgrims, helping them organise their entire trip.

Enhancing Hajj and Umrah services for global pilgrims

The Nusuk exhibition is aimed at familiarising representatives from the private sector in the Emirates with the official platform’s offerings and benefits. In addition, two workshops on “Crowd Management and Grouping of Pilgrims” and “Rights of Pilgrims” were conducted.

The events highlighted key aspects of managing pilgrim crowds and ensuring their rights are respected throughout the pilgrimage journey. The Saudi minister’s recent trip underscores the two countries’ commitment to collaborate in enhancing Hajj and Umrah services.

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