The important services provided by the institutions of Hajj and Umrah in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to pilgrims during the most recent pilgrimage season have elicited praise, commendation and thanks to those in charge of organizing these ceremonies.
The success of the rituals of Hajj and the increase in the number of pilgrims coming from different countries of the world attest to the soundness of the instructions and guidelines issued by Saudi Arabia to the guests of Allah at the start the Hajj season for this year. All the steps contributed in facilitating the movement of pilgrims and their visits, and enabling them to reach and return to their places in a safe manner.
These instructions, which preceded the Hajj ceremonies, also included the need for the pilgrims to know the approved sizes and weights of personal luggage to be shipped. This enabled the smooth carriage of the goods to Saudi Arabia. Also, these instructions helped them bring all the official documents required before they began their travel from their places of residence.
The entry visa was one of the most important documents for foreigners residing in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries. Instructions to the pilgrims upon arrival included the departure times so that they did not remain on Saudi territory beyond specified deadlines, helping mitigate an annual problem where some visitors tend to linger beyond the time limits.
These instructions also related to the need to submit the necessary vaccination papers and other requirements. They all contributed to the safety of the pilgrims and the success of their ceremonies without any significant problems.
We extend our salutations to everyone who stands behind these instructions from the officials of the Saudi leadership, the security and safety personnel working in all Saudi ports and crossings, and everyone who contributed to the success of these ceremonies.
As for the economic results of Hajj for this last season, the preliminary data reveal an increase in the revenues of Hajj and Umrah services to reach 35 billion Saudi riyals, accounting for about 4% of the GDP. Experts expect revenues to reach 150 billion Saudi riyals in 2030, representing 11% of the GDP, while pilgrim numbers are anticipated to reach 30 million
Today, religious tourism is receiving more attention from the concerned authorities in Saudi Arabia, at a time when domestic tourism is generally receiving a response from citizens and expatriates, helping retain hard currency in-country.
The diversification of these services enhances the production base in Saudi Arabia alongside other important economic sectors such as energy, mining, trade and industry. All these developments will bring more benefits and great economic results to this country, while providing more jobs for Saudis and expatriates.
Improving the services of pilgrims and providing infrastructure for them and for all those coming to perform Umrah will undoubtedly work to strengthen the economic business structure in Saudi Arabia in the future, which will inevitably lead to an increase in the gross domestic product of Saudi Arabia according to their vision for the year 2030.
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