Tawafa Foundation for non-Arab African countries has documented 1,176 housing buildings for pilgrims who will perform Haj this year so far, said Adnan Mukhtar, chief of the housing committee at the foundation.

“Contracts were previously authenticated. They deal with pilgrims coming from non-Arab African countries who come through Haj organization companies. The role of the committee is to authenticate the contracts between the landlords of the buildings and company heads who organize pilgrims’ travel,” he said.

“We usually make sure that requirements are in place,” he said.

“Contracts must be accompanied by official permits from the government agency for the leased facility to be used as pilgrim accommodation, in addition to other services that are mutually agreed upon.”

Mukhtar said, “The foundation is keen on protecting the rights of the contracting parties. The foundation also follows up on other services in the facilities, such as ensuring availability of safety equipment and daily housekeeping.”

“It is of high importance for us to accomodate pilgrims in a comfortable setting in order for them to perform their religious rituals effectively,” he said.