Tourism Minister Receives Gratitude from 150 Companies for Successful Hajj Season

جانب من اللقاء.

Representatives from approximately 150 tourism companies involved in the Hajj and Umrah sectors extended their congratulations to the entire tourism sector following the remarkable success of this year’s Hajj season.

Despite the challenges and lengthy duration of the season, they noted that the tourism sector achieved numerous successes, offering unprecedented services during this Hajj. A significant indicator of this success was the Egyptian Hajj mission winning the Silver Labeeb Award for Best Hajj Missions in the Islamic world, with tourism pilgrims accounting for over 52% of Egyptian pilgrims.

This acknowledgment came during a meeting held at a hotel in Heliopolis, where representatives from these companies gathered to celebrate the successful season and discuss its key features. They also presented their vision for the upcoming Hajj and Umrah seasons.

The gathering also saw representatives expressing their gratitude to Sherif Fathy, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, for his significant role in ensuring the season’s success. They highlighted his strong relationships with various authorities in Saudi Arabia, particularly with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. The minister’s dedication to overseeing every detail related to Hajj and Umrah was also acknowledged.

Additionally, they offered apologies to the minister for any misconduct or misunderstandings caused by irresponsible individuals, emphasizing their rejection of such actions that tarnish the reputation of diligent and committed tourism companies. They also denounced false narratives attempting to undermine this year’s successful pilgrimage.

The companies expressed their sincere thanks to the tourism sector within the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, led by Assistant Minister for Company Affairs Samia Sami, as well as all leaders and staff for their unwavering support throughout the season.

They further extended their appreciation to Ahmed Ibrahim, head of the Religious Tourism Committee at the Chamber of Companies, for providing unprecedented support and services throughout the past season while condemning any disparagement towards successful elements within the tourism system.

Productive Discussions and Important Meeting

The meeting addressed key aspects of last season’s Hajj to maximize its numerous benefits while identifying challenges that emerged and proposing solutions. Participants agreed on a new program focusing on enhanced services at holy sites, particularly five-star accommodations over those in Mecca and Jeddah. They praised efforts made by both the chamber and ministry towards improving ground-based economic pilgrimages while commending Al-Rajhi Company for its excellent services in this area.

The companies also discussed operational strategies for the upcoming Umrah season, stressing the need for expedited regulations that align with Saudi guidelines governing Umrah.

At the conclusion of the meeting, seven representatives from participating companies were selected to meet with the Religious Tourism Committee at the chamber to discuss their proposals regarding next year’s Hajj and Umrah seasons.