A large number of pilgrims have returned to their respective cities after performing the annual pilgrimage, which they say has been one of the most successful seasons of Haj.

“This is my third time to perform Haj and I must say all the services provided this year were exceptional. They performed the rites smoothly. Everything was so organized, thanks to the hard work of the Saudi government and the scouts that helped us in every way possible,” said Hamza Saeed, a Jordanian residing in Jeddah.

He said they received quality food, pure water, medical, and transportation and supply services throughout the Haj period easing their journey and allowing them to concentrate spiritually.

Likewise, several domestic pilgrims enjoyed the affordable Haj packages offered by the ministry and appreciated it for enabling them to perform their rituals with ease and comfort.

“Following earlier complaints of the high expenses involved in doing the pilgrimage, the Haj Ministry introduced the cost-effective services for local pilgrims. The Haj tour ensured us a smooth journey from Riyadh to the Holy City of Makkah and a peaceful pilgrimage,” said Ali Abdullah, adding that “the total amount I spent was only around SR5,000 for three members, whereas earlier the cost of pilgrims used to reach above SR10,000. I am happy that the Haj went really well and most importantly the services provided to us were great.”

Moreover, all the pilgrims commended the Saudi Arabian Scouts Association (SASA) for their constant support and for assisting them in making their movement easier in Holy sites.

Faiz Khan, a Pakistani residing in Jeddah said, “My ten-year-old son was lost during the journey from Mina to Arafat, but with the help of the scouts we found him within an hour. I am really grateful to them and appreciate their quick services. The scouts were spread all over the Holy sites to help the pilgrims in finding their way, and to assist the children and the elderly.”

However, many of them expressed dissatisfaction toward the ministry for offering a limited number of low-cost Haj packages and the quality of services despite paying a huge amount of money.

“We hope they increase the number of domestic pilgrims enjoying low- cost packages of Haj next year so that it is affordable for a greater majority of people in the low-income bracket,” said Yousef another resident of Jeddah.