RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has launched a new initiative to streamline the arrival process for Hajj pilgrims. According to Arab media reports, mobile passport counters have been set up at airports, land borders, and seaports to facilitate smoother entry for incoming pilgrims.
The decision is based on the efforts of the Saudi authorities to provide the best services for the pilgrims who come from across the globe to visit Mecca during the Hajj season. The Saudi authorities have indicated that this step will make the entry process much easier, especially for the elderly and disabled pilgrims.
Key points of the new system:
Quick processing upon arrival, avoiding long lines
On-site fingerprint and facial scans
Instant passport processing
The Saudi authorities reiterated that all the passengers must abide by the customs laws of Saudi Arabia.
Hajj 2026: Pakistan to open 35 clinics for pilgrims’ health and safety
Meanwhile, the government has announced the establishment of 35 modern medical clinics in Saudi Arabia to provide healthcare services to Pakistani pilgrims during the upcoming Hajj season.
It was reported that the clinics have been planned by the government to be established in the holy cities of Mecca and Medina under the phases of the plan, which will provide complete health support to the pilgrims.
The director general Hajj, Abdul Wahab Soomro, said during his visit to the clinic in Mecca that the government is determined to provide health requirements to the pilgrims in all possible ways. According to him, such clinics will make sure to offer a smooth and pleasant experience of Hajj without facing health problems.
It has been informed that the clinics consisting of 35 dispensaries have been established in Mecca; however, two extra clinics are running in the center of Medina. Less number of clinics have been established in the Markaziyah of Medina because pilgrims move from place to place.
The clinics include modern medical treatment facilities and testing labs that can conduct 28 different types of tests. Furthermore, 24-hour ambulances have been provided in each clinic with 3 to 4 ambulances.
It is also estimated by authorities that over 8,000 units of medicines were supplied free of charge via the outpatient departments.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs further said that from the beginning of the pre-Hajj flights on April 18, 20,000 Pakistani pilgrims have reached Medina. In total, about 179,000 Pakistani pilgrims will participate in Hajj this year.
It was highlighted by the officials that apart from transport and lodging arrangements for pilgrims, healthcare services form an integral part of Hajj arrangements as well.
