DOHA: More than 18,000 candidates have applied for Haj this year and the huge number of applications might help increase the quota, a senior official has hinted.
“Haj quota for Qatar remained unchanged at 1,200 pilgrims this year (1437 AH), however efforts are ongoing to increase it,” said Ali Sultan Al Mesaifri, Director, Haj and Umrah Affairs Department at the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs.
Applicants for the pilgrimage this year totalled nearly 18,400, including Qataris and expatriates, but the state’s quota is still 1,200 pilgrims due to ongoing expansion works of Grand Mosque of Makkah, he added.
There is hope to raise the quota but so far no confirmation has been received. Hopefully, the quota will be increased due to the large number of applicants, said Al Mesaifri.
The selection process has been completed for the applicants who have met the requirements.
The selected candidates were informed via text messages and given one week to register with a tour operator of their choice.
Applicants who fail to register within the given time will be eliminated automatically.
Twenty-seven authorised tour operators have been selected to organise Haj trips this year — 16 by air and 11 by road if they could register at least 50 pilgrims.
About new instructions issued by the Saudi Hajj authorities, Al Mesaifri stressed that Saudi Arabia is keen to annually provide all Haj missions in all countries with new instructions and procedures that are always in the interest of the pilgrims and their safety and security.
He said the Haj Affairs Department held a meeting with tour operators and informed them about new instructions and took their suggestions. The next meeting will be held soon to discuss final arrangements for this season.
He also praised the Saudi Haj authorities for cooperation with the Qatari Hajj Mission, their eagerness to serve the pilgrims and facilitate the performance of their rituals easily and smoothly, stressing that there is continuous communication with them to serve the pilgrims.
He also commended the organisers of Haj trips for cooperation with the Ministry, their response to instructions and their commitment to provide quality services and all means of comfort to pilgrims.
Al Mesaifri reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to create all conditions and provide all means to ensure pilgrims’ security, safety and comfort as part of implementation of the directives of Qatar’s wise leadership.
Al Mesaifri said the department is developing its work constantly and upgrading means and mechanisms, taking advantage of modern techniques to ensure an appropriate atmosphere for the pilgrims from their departure to the holy land until they return home.
The Peninsula
