The two ministers and their teams discussed many issues at the Ministry of Haj office in Jeddah. Al-Hajjar also approved Pakistan’s request for the use of Mashair train facility by all Pakistani pilgrims (government and private Haj groups).

The Pakistani minister said this year the Pakistani pilgrims would also be allowed to take guided tours of Jeddah during their stay in the Kingdom.

Numerous other issues relating to better services for Hajis were discussed. The Saudi side stressed on a continuous improvement of the pre-arrival training of Pakistani pilgrims and also sought improved operational mechanism, which further reduced any discomfort to the pilgrims, like delays of buses between Jeddah airport and Makkah.

To ensure quality food for Hajis, the Saudi side insisted that local authorities should supervise the catering services.

Al-Hajjar welcomed his Pakistani counterpart to the annual bilateral ministerial meeting.

On his part, Shah praised Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah, Crown Prince Naif and the Saudi government for the numerous steps being taken for the constant improvement of services provided to pilgrims from all over the world.