MAKKAH — The Society of Makkah Neighborhoods recently held a meeting to implement a culture of hospitality toward pilgrims. 'Hajis hospitality' has been a longtime tradition since pre-Islamic era, although it has undergone some changes in line with modern times. Makkawi families used to host pilgrims in their homes and provide them with food and all other necessities free of charge. Nowadays, pilgrims are housed in special accommodation and use special transport means. The Society of Makkah Neighborhoods is activating the old traditions again, and has discussed ways to spread this culture amongst society to become more connected with pilgrims and to extend the feeling of contentment among them. The society covers 20 neighborhood centers around Makkah, and conducts visits to pilgrims at their accommodations. It organizes festivities and assists in offering whatever services pilgrims may require. Dr. Tala Abu Al-Noor, involved in the holy city project, said serving the pilgrims is one of the most honorable activities for a Muslim. The pilgrims are the guests of God, he said, and their service is a must, and that the current generation of Saudis should be taught to do so. Such services will leave a good impression on pilgrims and will reflect positively on the country's citizens, he said. Najmuddeen Al-Andejani, a faculty member of Umm Al-Qura University, said Makkawi families used to host pilgrims from the time of their arrival until their departure. He said: “We must provide proper hospitality to pilgrims so they feel that they are amongst their families.” He said all bodies should contribute to this concept, including the Ministry of Education. Saeed Al-Mab'ooth, a supervisor at the Makkah Directorate of Education, said students were educated on the merits of such service and were taught on the best ways to provide it. As part of the program, he said, several students received pilgrims at entry points to Makkah and presented gifts and other necessities to them. Abdullah Al-Zahrani, a senior society official, said Hajis hospitality is a national project that should receive attention and the cooperation of all public and private agencies. He said pilgrims come from different parts of the world and they should not be allowed to feel like strangers in the Kingdom. Adel Al-Hassani, another society official, said this year 10 centers will host the families of 50 pilgrims and provide them with food and other necessities until the end of Haj. He said treating the pilgrims well leaves a great impression on them, especially those from non-Arab countries.
