King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud has announced that 1,000 Palestinians—comprising relatives of martyrs, prisoners, and the wounded—will be hosted to perform Hajj this year at his personal expense.
This initiative is part of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Guests Program for Hajj, Umrah, and Visit, managed by the Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance. The announcement was made by Saudi Press Attaché Dr. Naif Al-Otaibi in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter).
The gesture has been praised for providing spiritual solace to families affected by ongoing violence. Commenting on the initiative, senior journalist Tahir Khan noted that at a time when innocent Palestinian civilians, including women and children, continue to suffer due to Israeli military actions, this act of generosity offers much-needed emotional and spiritual support.
Saudi Minister of Islamic Affairs and General Supervisor of the Guests Program, Sheikh Dr. Abdullatif Al Alsheikh, commended the leadership for its continued dedication to the Palestinian cause. He emphasized that the move reflects the Kingdom’s enduring commitment to Islamic unity and solidarity.
Dr. Al Alsheikh further stated that the ministry has launched a comprehensive logistical plan to assist the pilgrims throughout their journey—from departure to their return—ensuring full support during their stay in Makkah and Madinah.
Since its establishment in 1417 AH, the Guests Program has hosted more than 64,000 pilgrims from various Muslim countries, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s role as a cornerstone of the Islamic world and the guardian of the Two Holy Mosques.
