Bahraini pilgrims begin spiritual journey to Mecca and Medina
TDT | Manama
The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com
The first batch of pilgrims from Bahrain embarked yesterday on their spiritual journey to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina ahead of the upcoming season.
Emotions were high as family members and top officials, including the Justice Minister, gathered at the Bahrain International Airport to see the pilgrims off.
Special arrangements had been made at the airport to ensure a smooth pilgrimage experience for the travellers.
The Minister of Justice, Islamic Affairs, and Endowments, Nawaf bin Muhammad Al-Maawda, who is also the chairman of the Supreme Committee for Hajj and Umrah Affairs, flagged off the journey.
Shaikh Adnan bin Abdullah Al-Qattan, Head of the Kingdom of Bahrain’s Mission for Hajj, Undersecretary for Justice and Islamic Affairs, Judge Issa Sami Al-Mannai, Dr. Muhammad Taher Al-Qattan, Deputy Head of the Kingdom of Bahrain’s Hajj Mission, and Ali Amin Al-Rayes, Acting Director of the Department of Religious Affairs, were present.
Before their departure, the Minister wished the pilgrims a pleasant journey and assured them that the Hajj mission would work around the clock to help them during the season.
This year, Saudi Arabia is expecting approximately 2.6 million Muslims to perform the Hajj, marking the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Saudi authorities have also issued warnings about the weather conditions during the Hajj season in Mecca and Medina. Daytime temperatures are expected to reach extreme levels, with Mecca reaching around 43.6 degrees Celsius and Medina around 43 degrees Celsius.
However, the nights are predicted to be more moderate, with minimum temperatures averaging 29.6 degrees Celsius in Mecca and 29.3 degrees Celsius in Medina. Additionally, the Saudi National Centre of Meteorology has forecast wind conditions that may reduce visibility.
Considering the challenging weather conditions, authorities have emphasised the importance of pilgrims being mindful of the weather and adequately prepared.
Furthermore, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has cautioned against consuming exposed food and reassured pilgrims that there are plenty of restaurants around the Grand Mosque in Mecca that cater to their preferences.
Saudi officials have also advised pilgrims against carrying large amounts of cash and valuable items.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah recommends a cash limit of $16,000 (SAR 60,000) and advises against bringing gold bullion, precious metals, and stones.
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