MAKKAH: The confidence vested in two sisters for their sustained efforts in serving the pilgrims is indicative of the growing awareness of women’s role in every field.

The Tawafa establishment that serves pilgrims from Arab countries has, in recognition of the service by the two sisters, elevated them to tasks with greater responsibilities.

The sisters, Dalia Khalil and Nura Khalil from Makkah, who have been working as Tawafa members for years, were limited to office work. But this Haj the organization felt that both are experienced enough to move from office to work in the field.

“I am proud of this job,” said Dalia. “Not only does it help me earn rewards from Allah, it also helps me earn a living. I feel blessed when I see the happiness in the eyes of pilgrims.” Dalia graduated from Umm Al-Qura University with a degree in economics, which gave her good background to work as an accountant in a Tawafa office.

“For years I have been doing office work such as consulting with the Passport Department, finding buildings for pilgrims to rest and also increasing their awareness,” she said.

After gaining experience in all the stages of assistance, she learned to help pilgrims perform their Haj smoothly. After eight years of hard work, Dalia now has an office in Mina and has also accompanied pilgrims to Arafat.

“The tough days are the real Haj days — the five days starting from the 8th of Dul Hijjah until the 12th. We work around the clock during these days and do not sleep except for two to three hours,” said Dalia.

Nura Khalil, 28, said that she couldn’t wait for each Haj season.

“My family supported me and encouraged me to take this job,” she added.

According to Nura, the presence of women in Tawafa work is increasing every year.

“Five years ago when I started as an office worker, I learned how to serve pilgrims,” she said.

Nura also said that she had to educate herself on religious matters in order to answer pilgrims’ varied queries.

“We need to know well all details about the rituals and also regular issues that pilgrims might want to know, as most of them are new to the country,” she said.

Nura said that other than the reward she gains from such services and the wages, she and her sister also establish connections with various pilgrims from around the globe.

“I got to know pilgrims from all backgrounds and all layers, including ministers and celebrities,” said Nura.