RIYADH: In 2024, the Saudi government extended invitations to 1,000 esteemed Muslim figures worldwide for Umrah, a minor pilgrimage. This initiative, under the Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs named after King Salman bin Abdul Aziz, was sanctioned by the King himself.
The first batch of 250 pilgrims from 14 Asian countries, including Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines, arrived on Thursday, as reported by a state-run news agency.
Among the invitees are scholars, clerics, influential individuals, university professors, and eminent personalities, handpicked by Minister of Islamic Affairs Abdul Latif Al-Sheikh from various corners of the globe.
The program, held under the auspices of the two holy mosques, will enable guests to perform Umrah at the grand mosque of Makkah and offer prayers at the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina, both deeply revered by Muslims worldwide.
Officials expressed readiness to accommodate and facilitate the 1,000 guests during their visit.
Saudi Arabia also revealed its host facilities, welcoming Muslims seeking to perform Umrah. Additionally, the country implemented measures allowing its citizens to invite friends residing abroad by coordinating with Saudi authorities.
Furthermore, the Kingdom announced that expatriates in Gulf Cooperation Council countries can apply for tourist visas to perform Umrah, regardless of their profession. This move aims to encourage and facilitate visits for religious purposes.
