Civil Protection Teams Dedicated to Serving Algerian pilgrims in Saudi Arabiams Dedicated to Safeguarding Algerian Pilgrims in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

BY: Hana Saada

ALGIERS- Every year, millions of Muslims from around the world embark on a spiritual journey to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to participate in the Hajj pilgrimage, one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Among these pilgrims are a significant number of Algerians who travel to Saudi Arabia seeking spiritual fulfillment and a deep connection with their faith. Ensuring the safety and well-being of these pilgrims is of utmost importance, and Algeria’s civil protection teams play a vital role in providing support and assistance to Algerian pilgrims throughout their Hajj experience.

The Significance of the Hajj Pilgrimage

The Hajj pilgrimage holds great significance in Islam and is considered a religious duty for Muslims who are physically and financially able to undertake the journey. It involves a series of rituals performed in and around the holy city of Mecca, including the Tawaf (circumambulation) of the Kaaba, the Sa’i (ritual walking) between the hills of Safa and Marwa, and the standing at Mount Arafat. The pilgrimage is a deeply spiritual experience, fostering unity, humility, and self-reflection among Muslims worldwide.

Hajj 2023: 213 Civil Protection Agents Dedicated to Ensuring Pilgrim Comfort in the Holy Places

In Algeria’s Hajj mission, 213 dedicated Civil Protection agents have been assigned the responsibility of assisting pilgrims throughout their pilgrimage, from their arrival at the airport to their accommodation and orientation.

Colonel Fouad Lalami, the head of the civil protection unit of the Algerian Hajj mission, shared that out of the total 213 agents, 69 are stationed in Mecca, 51 in Medina, and 13 in Jeddah. Additionally, 80 agents accompany flights from Algeria to the Holy Places. These agents play a crucial role in various tasks, including reception and accommodation at the airport, as well as ensuring the safety, guidance, and retrieval of lost luggage for the pilgrims.

In Mecca, the primary focus of the Civil Protection agents is to provide protection and guidance at the airport, particularly considering the large number of elderly pilgrims and the exceptional conditions that may arise during the pilgrimage season. Colonel Lalami emphasized the importance of the agents’ role, especially in light of the challenging circumstances. To facilitate their interventions, the agents are equipped with special cards containing essential information about the pilgrims’ accommodations.

The Civil Protection agents work tirelessly around the clock, ensuring the well-being of the pilgrims.  Acknowledging the growing significance of female religious leadership, Ms. Samira Mekhaldi, the president of the female section of the Algerian mission, expressed her satisfaction with the increased number of female guides for this Hajj season. This step aims to better accompany the pilgrims, particularly considering the rise in their numbers. The inclusion of female guides reflects the commitment to cater to the diverse needs of pilgrims and ensure their comfort and guidance during the pilgrimage.

The efforts of the 213 Civil Protection agents, along with the support from female guides, contribute significantly to the smooth execution of the Hajj pilgrimage for Algerian pilgrims. Their dedication, vigilance, and round-the-clock availability are essential in maintaining a safe and comfortable environment for the pilgrims. By fulfilling their roles with utmost responsibility and care, these agents uphold the values of service and compassion, creating a positive and enriching experience for all those embarking on this sacred journey.