Jeddah: The 49th Grand Hajj Symposium commenced in Jeddah under the theme 'Capability in Hajj and Contemporary Developments.' The event, organized by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in collaboration with the Council of Senior Scholars and the King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives, gathered a notable assembly of scholars and researchers from the Islamic world.
According to Saudi Press Agency, Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dr. Tawfig Al-Rabiah inaugurated the symposium with a welcome address, describing it as an intellectual platform uniting prominent thinkers and scholars. The symposium aims to highlight the significance of Hajj as a pillar of Islam and to reinforce its religious and cultural dimensions.
Dr. Al-Rabiah indicated that this year has seen the launch of various programs and initiatives, including infrastructure projects by the Royal Commission for Makkah City and the Holy Sites. Developments include shaded areas covering 170,000 square meters, the planting of 20,000 trees, and rubber walkways to enhance pilgrims' comfort and safety.
On healthcare readiness, Dr. Al-Rabiah mentioned the establishment of a new emergency hospital, 15 ambulance units, 71 rapid intervention points, and 64 two-story health complexes. He also announced the opening of the General Transport Center, which integrates buses and the Haraman High-Speed Railway into a cohesive transport system.
Dr. Al-Rabiah added that preparations by the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque include upgrades to audiovisual equipment, the development of childcare centers, and services tailored to meet the needs of pilgrims.
Special Advisor to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives, Prince Faisal bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, also addressed the symposium. He emphasized the Kingdom's commitment to the Two Holy Mosques and Hajj since Saudi Arabia's unification. Prince Faisal highlighted infrastructure developments and services that facilitate pilgrims' experiences.
Prince Faisal announced the launch of the Hajj and Two Holy Mosques History Forum, organized by the King Abdulaziz Foundation in collaboration with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. The forum serves as a scientific and cultural platform promoting the heritage of the Two Holy Mosques and encouraging scholarly exchange.
Grand Mufti of the Kingdom, Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh, addressed the symposium through remarks by Sheikh Dr. Fahd Al-Majed, Secretary-General of the Council of Senior Scholars. He highlighted the symposium's role in exploring vital topics on Hajj and Islamic affairs.
Sheikh Abdulaziz stressed that this year's theme, 'Capability' in Islamic jurisprudence, examines its practical and legal implications amid contemporary developments. The discussions aim to facilitate Hajj performance and uphold Islamic law objectives through scholarly dialogue.