JEDDAH: Several Saudi scholars have urged the public to follow rules instituted by the government for this year’s Haj, to ensure pilgrims can perform their rituals in peace and safety.

Speaking at a Haj awareness event launched recently by Makkah Gov. Prince Khaled Al-Faisal, who is also the chairman of the Supreme Haj Committee, they said it would also allow the government to provide quality services for Hajis.

Issa Al-Ghaith, a member of the Shoura Council, said the campaign would help reduce various violations including people sleeping on roads at the holy sites, which have previously seen roads and pedestrian pathways blocked.

Al-Ghaith said violators should be penalized. He also praised the Ministry of Haj for its service delivery and making this year’s pilgrimage affordable for many people.

Abdul Rahman Al-Sudais, head of the Presidency of the Two Holy Mosques, urged pilgrims to focus on their rituals and not use Haj for political purposes.

Hajis should unite while performing Haj and do everything in their power to follow the example of the Prophet (peace be upon him) in their bid to get closer to Allah Almighty.

Al-Sudais said the awareness campaign is aimed at reducing transgressions by pilgrims and service providers. The aim is to show the world that Muslims are honorable, disciplined and concerned about their fellow worshipers, he said.

Makkah officials have already turned away about 160,000 people who did not have permits to enter the city. Only people living there and those with permits can enter the holy city.