The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Guests Program for Hajj, Umrah and Visit continues to create memorable experiences for pilgrims from around the world. This year, two heartwarming stories emerged from Mina and Makkah, highlighting the program's role in fostering academic bonds and emotional reunions.
Indian Academic Recalls 50-Year Bond with Saudi Arabia
Indian academic Kamaluddin Al-Hamidi, while performing Hajj under the program, fondly recalled his university days in Saudi Arabia five decades ago. Al-Hamidi earned his bachelor's and master's degrees from the Islamic University of Madinah, an experience that shaped his scholarly path. He credited his time in the Kingdom for enabling him to co-found a university, expand Qur'anic schools, and build mosques in India. Al-Hamidi praised the Ministry of Islamic Affairs for the program's organization and hospitality, highlighting Saudi Arabia's continued global role in serving Muslims and the Two Holy Mosques.
Emotional Reunion in Makkah
In a separate emotional moment in Makkah, Mohammed Sheikh reunited with his former professor, Kenny Mohammed, who serves as vice president of a university in Kerala, India. The reunion brought back memories of their academic relationship that began in the classroom years ago. Sheikh expressed that meeting his professor among the king's guests reflected the humanitarian spirit of the program, which goes beyond hosting pilgrims to creating lasting human connections.
Praise for Services and Facilities
Both guests praised the advanced services provided to pilgrims, noting that the well-organized facilities in Makkah and the holy sites reflect the leadership's care for pilgrims and Umrah performers. On the eighth day of Dhul Hijjah, 2,500 pilgrims from 104 countries arrived at the holy sites under the guests program. Minister of Islamic Affairs Sheikh Abdullatif Al-Alsheikh emphasized that Saudi Arabia spares no effort in serving pilgrims.
