British Muslim VIP Guests Perform Hajj 2011

British Muslim VIP Guests perform Hajj this year

Dr. Mozammel Haque

MINA, MAKKAH: I am fortunate enough this year to be invited by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia. Now we have been doing the rituals of Hajj according to the arrangements provided by the Royal Protocol. I have done a lot of Hajj before and seen a lot of hardships during the Hajj. So now at an advanced age I very much appreciate all these facilities that have been given to us which has made our Hajj very easy. I thank Allah the Almighty first of all. He has given me once again this life opportunity and secondly I thank the Saudi Monarch because of whom we are able to come for Hajj this year because there was no planning whatsoever to come for Hajj but suddenly out of blue the invitation came and within days all the things were prepared and we come here and we have been received by Royal Protocol in the Airport and straight away all the guests were taken to Jeddah Conference Palace and we performed our Umrah at Masjid al-Haram which was done also in a very easy way.

What I can say that the facilities which are provided to us they are because we are guest but the facilities that are provided to pilgrims they are in general are enormous, so big that no person could imagine what is the state of affairs now in comparison with what it was in thirty years ago. We also remember that many time some of the tents caught fire and then many many people have been burnt alive. That was those tents did not have all these precautionary measures which can stop the fire.

Revolutionary Development in Transportation -Dr. Ahmed al-Dubayan

Revolutionary development in the transportation in the Holy sites took place, said the leader of the VIP Guests from the UK, Dr. Ahmad al-Dubayan, Director General of the Islamic Cultural Centre, London and mentioned about the services that are provided here. “The authorities here did the best for us, to welcome us, to facilitate our Hajj. As regards the hospitality I have to admire the hospitality we have seen in accommodation, in food, in transport and in everything and these are something that we have to thank.”

Every year King Abdullah, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, invites Muslims from different parts of the world to perform Hajj as Royal guest. So far 18,000 Muslims from around the globe have performed Hajj during the past years as guests of King Abdullah. This year Hajj 2011 “King Abdullah will host 1,400 pilgrims from around the globe,” said Sheikh Saleh bin Abdul Aziz Aal Al-Sheikh, Minister of Islamic Affairs. Out of 1,400 pilgrims invited by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, 30 are from the United Kingdom.

This year 2011 the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah has invited 30 Muslims from the United Kingdom. At the same time, there are another 20 guests who are actually hosted by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs of Saudi Arabia. So this year there are 50 guest altogether from the United Kingdom – 30 VIP and 20 from the Ministry of Islamic Affairs.

This 30 invited Royal guests include Muslim leaders; those who are people of influence, those who also serve the Muslim community, Ulema and religious scholars of different religious schools of thought in the UK. Among these VIP people are some politicians, such as Lord Mohammad Sheikh and his wife, Lady Sheikh, from the Conservative Party. There is Baroness Uddin from the House of Lords and Shahid Malik, the former Communities Minister from the Labour Party.

Similarly, the Muslim scholars are from different major groups of the Muslim organizations in the UK, for example, some scholars from Ahle-Hadith, some scholars of Deobandis, there are some scholars from other organizations.

These 30 guests of the Royal Protocol are British nationals, they are Muslim leaders, Muslim scholars and media people and some politicians; but as regards their ethnicity and cultural heritage, they are Muslims of different cultural heritage, such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Muslims from Saudi Arabia itself, Muslims from Tunisia and many other countries.

Similarly, the other guests with the Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs are those groups of people who are really playing an important role in the Muslim unity and giving service to the Muslim community. They are British nationals but of different ethnic origins.

The leader of this VIP Guests from the UK, Dr. al-Dubayan, said, “This year there is a message. And that message of Hajj is a message of Peace. Hajj is an occasion of more dialogue and better relationship. The Hajj in Makkah is really the biggest demonstration of peace in the world. The Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to the United Kingdom, His Royal Highness Mohammad bin Nawaf actually has the same concern and that’s why Muslims from different religious schools of thought, people of different ethnic origins come together to demonstrate the message of Hajj and also of good relations and better chance of dialogue among themselves and also with the scholars of Saudi Arabia.”

Holy Makkah is fully ready to receive Guests of Almighty Allah

Holy Makkah is fully ready to

receive Guests of Almighty Allah

Dr. Mozammel Haque

For the last four weeks I have been writing in this column about Hajj and what the British intending pilgrims have to do before going for Hajj. I think, now the time has come to inform the intending pilgrims about the rules and regulations, the facilities and arrangement on the ground in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.

Arrival of Pilgrims
All the preparation has been made in Makkah al-Mukarramah to receive millions of pilgrims in this year’s Hajj. Hajj flights started reaching in Saudi Arabia on 29 September and will continue until the end of October. The departure flights are supposed to start from 10th of November and end on 10th of December 2011.

The first batch of pilgrims for this year’s Hajj reached at King Abdul Aziz International Airport, Jeddah, on Wednesday, 28th of September. The batch consisted of two groups of South African pilgrims. The first flight carrying Indian pilgrims for Hajj reached Madinah al-Munawwarah on Thursday, 29th of September. A total of 170,491 pilgrims from India will perform Hajj this year. On the same day, the first batch of pilgrims, 284 in number, from the southern provinces of Thailand reached Jeddah. Some 13,000 pilgrims from Thailand will be coming for Hajj this year.

On Friday, 30th of September, the first batch of pilgrims, 205 in number from Pakistan reached Jeddah. A total of 180,000 Pakistani pilgrims will be going for Hajj this year. On the same day, the first batch of Chinese pilgrims reached Jeddah. A total of 13,800 pilgrims will leave China this year and they are expected to reach Saudi Arabia by 23 October.

All Hajj Pilgrims need to have vaccinated
The Saudi Ministry of Health has asked pilgrims to make sure that they are vaccinated against meningitis, cholera, yellow fever and dengue fever. It is learnt that disease-detection equipment has been deployed at the health centres of King Abdul Aziz International Airport and Jeddah Islamic Port. Specialised team will review the health certificates of passengers to see what vaccinations they have had. All the 16 entry points of the pilgrims into the Kingdom will be strictly monitored against any contagious disease.

All Hajj Pilgrims to be fingerprinted
It is also reported that all Hajj Pilgrims will be fingerprinted on their arrival in Saudi Arabia. Hajj plans are being implemented at King Abdul Aziz International Airport in Jeddah, Prince Muhammad Bin Abdul Aziz Airport in Madinah, Jeddah Islamic Port and other Makkah entrances.

Smart Cards for Pilgrims this year
Every pilgrim, on arrival at any of the Kingdom’s airports, seaports or border posts, will receive a digital smart card with all information of the pilgrim saved on it, it is reported in the press.

Shabab Book Satellite Programme
A satellite programme, titled, “Shabab Book” that is aired every Tuesday on Iqra Channel will be used this season to educate the youth about Hajj and its rites. This programme will be transmitted on 30 satellite channels. The Ministry is publishing information in 22 languages to reach Muslims around the world.

No cooking gas in Holy Sites
The Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Prince Naif bin Abdul Aziz, the former Second Deputy Premier and Interior Minister, has banned the use of liquefied gas for cooking at the Holy Sites during Hajj for the second consecutive season. The ban would not cause any inconvenience to pilgrims as a number of safe kitchens with access to all pilgrims are set up in the holy sites.

Hajj Campaign
Prince Khaled Al-Faisal, Governor of Makkah region, launched a Hajj Campaign under the motto “Hajj is Worship and Civilized Behaviour” has pinpointed the problems which should be dealt with, in particular the phenomenon of sleeping in the open in Makkah and the Holy Sites and the cases of those performing Hajj without a permit. The campaign aimed at educating pilgrims about how to perform the rituals properly and how to avoid behaviour that is not allowed in Islam.

The major objective of the campaign, according to Prince al-Faisal, is to make certain that pilgrims follow rules and instructions during Hajj. The Makkah Governor said the Kingdom wants to ensure that there is no overcrowding at the Holy Sites, stop pilgrims from sleeping in the open, and reduce pressure on the Grand Mosque and Jamarat Bridge. He said people who perform Hajj without a permit, sleep on the roads and litter at the Holy Sites are transgressing the laws of Almighty Allah. All these malpractices make it more difficult for the government to serve pilgrims effectively.

The Governor of Makkah said the campaign is meant to make pilgrims aware of negative and incorrect behaviour. This includes travelling without permits, sleeping in places that hamper the movement of pedestrians, machinery and cars, and littering.

Breaking the law for Hajj is a sin
Sheikh Saleh Aal Al-Sheikh, Saudi Minister of Islamic Affairs, said the campaign is meant to inform pilgrims about the importance of sticking to the rules made by the government and it is aimed at providing the best services to the Guests of Allah.

The Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia said the Hajj Campaign launched by Chairman of the Hajj Central Committee, Prince Khaled Al-Faisal, is part of the government’s plan to make sure all pilgrims can perform the rituals like the Prophet (peace be upon him) did.

Health Hotline service for Hajj Pilgrims
The Saudi Ministry of Health will start a phone-in-service for Hajj pilgrims to obtain Health advice instantly. This service, known as “Saha Ziyufur Ar-Rahman” (Health for the Guests of Allah) is running for the seventh consecutive year, has proven successful in the past. This service will be available on the toll-free number 8002494444 and will greet the caller with ‘Allah Humma Labaik’ before diverting him or her to a medical officer. The medical team comprises consultants, cardiologists, medical specialists, pharmacists and dentists. The programme is handled by a group of Saudi women who work in the ministry and its city hospitals.

Signal Alerts for Availability of Space
The Grand Mosque has 176 gates. Now if there is space in the Grand Mosque, then a green light by the door will be lit but if there is none a red light will show. This arrangement is put in place to let pilgrims know if there was space for them inside the Haram or not so that they can pray outside in the plazas. These gates, which will remain open around the clock, were being manned by 800 men and women guards.

20 gates have been designated for people with special needs including the King Abdul Aziz Gate. The Grand Mosque has been supplied with a number of escalators to ensure the easy movement of pilgrims coming in or going out of the mosque.

Transportation
This year it is learnt that the General Syndicate of Cars has a new transport plan to ensure pilgrims perform their Hajj rites with ease, comfort and peace of mind. The Syndicate plans to operate 120,000 trips for pilgrims between the Holy Sites and Makkah and Madinah during the pilgrimage season. The plan will be put into operation by nearly 30,000 supervisors, members of administrative and technical committees, drivers and maintenance workers. For this reason, the Syndicate has secured 20,000 buses to transport pilgrims between Makkah and Madinah’s Holy Sites. 17 transport companies will provide 20,000 buses during this Hajj season.

Saudi women volunteer to serve female pilgrims
Over 25 female volunteers at the Tawafa Establishment of South Asia will look after 250,000 women pilgrims from South Asia. The volunteers will carry out activities and visit residences to educate pilgrims on the performance of Hajj and will also guide them at the Holy Sites. The volunteer will also ‘distribute tens of thousands of awareness brochures to pilgrims printed in different languages along with CDs that focus on Hajj rituals, it is learnt.

Toilets and service centres at Jamarat
It is also reported that there are plans to set up toilets and service centres in the towers of the Jamarat Bridge for emergency cases. The emergency forces presented a working paper on plans for crowd management at the Jamarat Bridge and other emergencies.

Last minute reminder for the British Pilgrims
The Foreign Office is urging Hajj pilgrims to get comprehensive travel insurance and essential vaccinations before embarking on their journey: The Foreign Office said:
- it is compulsory for travellers to the Hajj to have a Meningococcal Meningitis vaccination certificate in order to obtain a Hajj visa
- we strongly recommend that you have a seasonal influenza vaccination prior to embarking on your trip
-you should take out fully comprehensive travel insurance in advance
-check the Foreign Office travel advice for the latest on the situation in Saudi Arabia.

The Foreign Office will provide the full range of consular services and will be sending a delegation of consular staff. Pilgrims should ensure they look after personal belongings and should take particular care with travel documents, tickets and other valuables.

The delegation will be located at the Elaf Al Khalil Hotel, Makkah. You can find contact details and information on what the delegation can and can’t do in our travel advice for Hajj pilgrims. Ms. Nagina Akhtar, an experienced Consular Officer from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) will be leading this year British Hajj Consular Delegation.

Please visit the following websites as a last minute :
http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travel-and-living-abroad/your-trip/hajj-pilgrims

Unparallel Successful Hajj 2010

An Unparallel Successful Hajj 2010

Dr. Mozammel Haque

Hajj 2010 was a record-breaking unparallel successful Hajj on many fronts: extraordinary turnout of pilgrims, major multi-million riyals developments including the Mashair Train and Al-Jamarat Bridge. The organisation, in terms of health, security, accommodation and transport, was also outstanding. Massive future developments are also under way which will see Makkah transformed into one of the most advanced cities in the world.

Hajj is one of the faith’s five pillars which require Muslims to undertake the pilgrimage to Makkah at least once in their lifetime if possible. World’s 1.6 billion Muslims obliged by religious duty to attempt the trip to the Holy cities but the host Saudi Arabia is only able to accept about 2.5 million a year due to the space in the surrounding areas of the holy places. Although the formal Hajj rituals only span five days, most go for a minimum of two weeks and some for up to two months, travelling to Madinah as well as to Makkah. However, beyond all the facts and figures, Hajj is an extraordinary spiritual exercise for all those seeking it.

Record number of Pilgrims
This year, Hajj 2010, there was an unprecedented number of pilgrims coming to complete the Holy Pilgrimage, as prescribed by Prophet Ibrahim and Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon them). The General Statistics Department announced that there were officially over 2.7 million pilgrims on Hajj this year, according to a report run by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA). This year’s Hajj drew a record 1.8 million foreigners from diverse regions of the world like Nigeria, Russia and Indonesia and the remaining 989,789 were from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, most of them residents. This is apart from the illegal pilgrims coming for the Holy journey. This was unlike last year when many pilgrims were kept away over Swine Flu fears.

Prince Naif , the Saudi interior Minister, said, it is reported, that close to 1.8 million pilgrims arrived in the Kingdom, the highest number ever recorded. The figure included 977,583 males representing 54 percent of the total, and 822,018 females representing 46 percent of the total of pilgrims. This was an 11 percent increase – 180,746 pilgrims – compared to last year. A total of over 1.6 million pilgrims came by air, 117,363 by land and 12,916 by sea, from 181 countries, reported in the press.

India, this year, sent about 175,000 pilgrims, Indonesia 220,000 pilgrims, Pakistan 160,000 and Bangladesh sent 94,000 pilgrims this year. 200,000 or more Saudi citizens and residents also joined this year Hajj.

Mashair Train in Holy sites
The operation this year of the multi-billion Riyal Holy Sites Train, also known in Arabic as the Mashair Train, reduced the traffic on the roads by a staggering 3,000 buses, according to the Hajj Committee at the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI). So, the most significant and high-profile development for Hajj this year 2010 was the completion of the first phase of the SR.6.5-billion Holy Sites Train, also known as the Mashair Train or Makkah Metro Train. The Train operated without any incident on the first two days of Hajj.

The Chinese-built dual-track light railway, with an initial nine stations, connects the three holy sites of Mina, Muzdalifah and Mount Arafat – areas that see massive congestion during the five-day pilgrimages will replace 4,000 buses previously used for Hajj. On Sunday, 14th of November, 2010, the Mashair Train, also known as Makkah Metro, rolled out to serve pilgrims, a move which is likely to see a major reduction in traffic congestion. This year Hajj 2010 the Mashair Train has already effectively tackled “unbearable” traffic jams at the holy sites.

The SR.6.5-billion train project was only operated at 35 percent of its full capacity at the moment in the first phase. When the project is complete, there will be 20 trains operational carrying up to 72,000 pilgrims an hour. They are estimated to transport more than 500,000 pilgrims an hour. The Train will eventually be linked to Makkah. It is also reported that the Train’s project has contributed to the development of Muzdalifah and also made it possible for several pilgrims to spend the night there.

The Train initially will run only from Mina, to the east, and on to Muzdalifah and Mount Arafat further east. The nine-trains can transport 30,000 pilgrims an hour.

Completion of Al-Jamarat Bridge
The completion of the top level of Al-Jamarat Bridge has also considerably eased the movement of pilgrims from the Tent City to perform the ritual of stoning of the devil. The stoning of the devil ritual at the massive Al-Jamarat Bridge started without any incident in the early hours of Tuesday, the 16th of November. The Saudi authorities also provided more than 124 free electric vehicles to take the sickly and elderly pilgrims to the Al-Jamarat Bridge.

It is reported that The Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs allocated 124 free small electric ‘golf’ carts to serve the elderly handicapped and pilgrims with special needs at the entrance to the Al-Jamarat Bridge. Each vehicle accommodates 14 pilgrims, moving them to throw pebbles and returning them to their camps.

Accident-free Hajj/Healthcare
Everyone declared this year’s Hajj a resounding success. Hajj 2010 took place this year without any major incident. This is due to the organisation, in terms of health, security, accommodation and transport, which was outstanding.

Healthcare/Hospitals
This year’s Hajj was given a clean bill of health. There was no outbreak of epidemic diseases and that the vast majority of pilgrims enjoyed good health. The Ministry of Health, it is reported, mobilized all its physical and technical resources to provide the highest standards of healthcare and to maintain the well-being of the Guests of Allah so that they could perform their religious duties with ease, comfort and peace of mind.

The Ministry of Health has implemented a number of preventive measures, including setting health requirements and updating them regularly based on scientific evidence and endorsement by the World Health Organisation (WHO). The Ministry has also ensured early detection of infectious diseases by implementing a strict surveillance process at all ports of entry for pilgrims arriving by air, land or sea.

The Saudi authorities during this year’s Hajj have an extensive network of hospitals and health centres, staffed by thousands of health workers to treat pilgrims. The Ministry of Health disclosed that there are 24 Health Ministry hospitals – seven hospitals in Makkah, 10 in Madinah, four in Mina and three in Arafat, with a total capacity of 4,005 beds. The Undersecretary of the Ministry, Dr. Muhammad bin Hamza Khushaim also said that 144 health centres in Makkah, the holy sites and Madinah were made readied for pilgrims. Of these, 127 health centres were in Makkah and the holy sites – 31 centres in Makkah, 46 in Arafat, 28 in Mina, six in Muzdalifah and 16 centres at the Jamarat Bridge. There were also 10 health centres at the Grand Mosque and its courtyards. The Secretariat of the Holy City of Makkah has assigned 12 pharmacies in Mina to provide medical services to the pilgrims.

Red Crescent Air Ambulances
Five air ambulances of the Red Crescent were flying over the holy sites as part of emergency services for the pilgrims, said the Director of the Saudi Red Crescent Air Ambulances organization’s air operations. A total of 140 personnel, including crew and medical staff, were ready 24 hours a day, with aircraft equipped with two beds and a mini emergency room. The aircraft was in a position to land at six hospitals with helipads, including Al-Noor, Hira, King Abdullah Medical City, Mina and Arafat, in addition to two other pads on the Jamarat Bridge.

A New Hajj Lab
The Saudi Health Ministry purchased for Hajj a world class laboratory that can detect over 10,000 viruses and other micro-organisms with its state-of-the-art technology. According to Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeah, Saudi Minister of Health, the equipment can identify all kinds of microbes, bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. He said the laboratory will be essential in its bid to keep pilgrims healthy during Hajj, it is reported. A total of 135 consultant doctors in various rare specializations was on duty around the clock during Hajj.

The Saudi Ministry of Health for the third year set up a special toll free call centre for Hajj pilgrims needing information and advice on health issues. The number to call was 800-249-4444.

Security measures
Over 50,000 security officials were deployed on the roads leading from Makkah to Mina to oversee the safety and security of pilgrims this year’s Hajj, according to a report carried by the Saudi Press Agency. There was top-level security at the Grand Mosque this year for Hajj, with over 8,000 male and female officials on duty, according to the Commander of the Grand Mosque’s Security Forces. Security officers had also helped in guiding pilgrims to the upper stories of the Grand Mosque, especially during the second and third days of Tashreeq when hundreds of thousands of pilgrims poured into the Holy Haram to perform the Farewell Tawaf.

Saudi-trained barbers at work
Over 100 Saudi graduates of the Vocational Industrial institutes, an affiliate of the General Organization for Technical and Vocational Training, who attended an intensive training course in hair shaving and haircuts, participated in this year’s Hajj in the “Safe Shaving Program”. Makkah Mayoralty allocated a special area for the young barbers who rendered their service to the pilgrims at “Al-Baiya Yard” west of Al-Jamarat Bridge in Mina.

Cleanliness
More than 6,000 labourers provided with 1,000 cleaning machines and 46,000 containers were working to keep the holy sites clean, said Director General of the Cleaning Administration at the Makkah Mayoralty.

More Women Scout Guides Next Hajj
The number of women guides will be increased for the next Hajj, according to Prince Faisal Bin Abdullah, Minister of Education. He said women scouts played a crucial role during Hajj. For this reason he wants to double the number in future. He added that plans are being drawn up to convert the scout society into a civil body, as ordered by the King. He said the King’s decision will contribute to the development and progress of the society which currently has 125,000 members. He also said it is a ‘noble mission’ and sends out a strong message to society, particularly the children about the value of voluntary work.

Million Meals on Arafat Day
The “Ishan wa Al-Takaful Al-Ijtima’i” – Good Deeds and Social Solidarity – Society in Makkah provided pilgrims with one million meals on Arafat Day, according to the charity’s director general. Each meal consisted of a bottle of water, fruit juice, baked bread garnished with cheese and dates, a pack of biscuits, and a napkin and waste container.

Future Developments Plan
Massive future developments are under way, which will see Makkah transformed into one of the most advanced cities in the world, as outlined by Prince Khaled Al-Faisal, Governor of Makkah. Makkah is also expected to see massive new developments over the coming years. The plan includes removing slums and old buildings around Makkah and replacing them with a new generation of housing and hotels. Saudi authorities also plan to build new hospitals and improve transportation and communication structure, said the Governor’s deputy, Abdulaziz Al-Khedheiri.

Hajj Awareness Week 2010 launches at the House of Lords

Hajj Awareness Week 2010
Launches at the House of Lords

Dr. Mozammel Haque

Hajj Awareness Week, like every year, was launched in the House of Lords on the 6th of October, 2010 by the Association of British Hujjaj (ABH). This is a preparation campaign for the British Hujjaj who will be travelling for pilgrimage to Makkah. The ABH is the only national Hajj specific organisation which organises high profile publicity campaigning throughout the year through the printed and electronic media, by special Television programmes on various TV channels, and also held seminars. The ABH will have grand annual seminar in Birmingham.

Hajj
Let us begin with the two terms or words used in the title; Hajj and Awareness. First of all, what is Hajj? It is the fifth pillar of Islam, the peak of the spiritual exercise. It has every aspect in itself, social, moral, physical, hygienic and spiritual. Whosoever wants to perform Hajj should prepare himself with information for Hajj. There are stages through which Allah the Almighty prepares Muslims to reach to that stage of Hajj.

Shahada or belief in the Oneness of God, monotheism is the basic, the foundation of Islam. Once the foundation is laid, the other actions start. After Shahada comes the Salat, the five times prayer. I think you know how the command comes from Allah for the prayer. Prayer is actually a gift from Allah through the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) to meet our Creator, to be close to Him. It comes after the meeting of Our Prophet with Allah the Almighty in the night of Miraj. This prayer has all the aspects to prepare Muslims socially, morally, ethically, spiritually to be in front of Allah. The ablution cleans the body and prayer purifies the heart and prepares the worshiper to be in front of Allah the Almighty.

The third stage is Zakat. It is again the act of purification, the purification of wealth by sacrificing some portion of the wealth for the poor people, for the community. Just as the performance of the salat (prayer) is both an individual and a communal obligation, so payment of the zakat instills a sense of communal identity and responsibility.

Zakat purifies the property of the people with means and clears it from the shares which do not belong to it anymore, the shares which must be distributed among the due beneficiaries.

Zakat does not only purify the property of the contributor but also purifies his heart from selfishness and greed for wealth. In return, it purifies the heart of the recipient from envy and jealousy, from hatred and uneasiness; and it fosters in his heart, instead, good will and warm wishes for the giver. As a result, the society at large will purify and free itself from class warfare and suspicion, from ill feelings and distrust, from corruption and disintegration, and from all such evils.

Again, at this stage Allah the Almighty prepares Muslims to be able to make greater sacrifice to meet Allah. Here again, there are social, ethical, spiritual dimensions involved. Zakat is thus a vivid manifestation of the spiritual and humanitarian spirit of responsive interactions between the individual and society.

After Salah and Zakat comes Sawm, fasting, the next stage to come near to Allah, the self-control, restraining oneself from all evil deeds, thinking, and wrong doings in remembering the presence of Allah the Almighty. All adult Muslims, whose health permits, are to abstain completely from food, drink, and sexual activity. Ramadan is a time for reflection and spiritual discipline, for expressing gratitude for God's guidance and atoning for past sins, for awareness of human frailty and dependence on God, as well as for remembering and responding to the needs of the poor and hungry.

This is not only the physical training but also the ethical, moral and spiritual training before reaching to the highest, the peak of the spiritual exercise. This is the fourth stage which prepares Muslims again socially, ethically, morally and spiritually to meet his Creator.

The fifth pillar of Islam, the peak of the spiritual, social and ethical exercise is the pilgrimage. It is the highest order of sacrifice to come closer to Allah the Almighty spiritually, that’s why, the Hajjis come to the House of Allah with only two pieces of cloth and saying Labbaika Allahumma Laik. Allah I am here, Allah I am here. Every adult Muslim physically and financially able is expected to perform the annual pilgrimage (Hajj) to Makkah at least once in his or her lifetime.

Hajj was made a model of piety, fear of God, purity, simplicity and austerity. The pilgrims were ordered to purify themselves spiritually, to give up worldly things, to avoid all sexual desires, even refrain from intercourse with their wives, and to totally refrain from using bad and abusive language.

Combined with the Prayer, Fasting and Almsgiving, and looked at as a whole, you will see that Hajj constitutes a preparation for the great task which Islam wants Muslims to do. This is why it has been made compulsory for all who have the money and the physical fitness for the journey to the Ka’ba.

Allah the Almighty prepares human beings from the day one, after the Shahada, the belief in the Oneness of Allah the Almighty (Tawheed), monotheism, to meet him. As I said earlier, in Hajj, there are Prayers, sacrifices and circumambulation (tawaf) of the Ka’ba. The only cry that one could hear was that which arose from the heart of the pilgrim: Labbyk, Allahumma labbayk, labbayk, la sharika laka labbauyk, inna ‘l-hamda wa‘n-ni’mata laka wa ‘l-mulka la sharika lak

Here am I before Thee, O God, doubly at Thy service. Before Thee I am, there is no partner unto Thee, doubly at Thy service here am I. All praise and blessings are Thine, and power. There is no partner unto Thee.

Hajj Awareness
That is what Hajj actually is and the pilgrim must have knowledge and information related to Hajj. Hajj is such a duty that the pilgrims have to know many aspects about this before travelling to Makkah. People were prohibited from starting out on Hajj without taking adequate provisions. Clarification was made that not taking provisions of a journey in this world did not mean, as was popularly believed, that one was thereby taking provisions for the Hereafter: And take provision for yourselves, but the best provision is God-consciousness (al-Baqarah 2: 197).

Nobody can be prepared to undertake this journey until and unless he has love of Allah in his heart as well as fear of Him, and is convinced that Allah wants him to do what he is doing. From the time of deciding and preparing for Hajj to the time of returning home, a tremendous impact is made on the hearts and minds of pilgrims. The process entails sacrifice of time, sacrifice of money, sacrifice of comfort, and sacrifice of many physical desires and pleasures---and all this simply for the sake of Allah, with no worldly or selfish motive.

The first is the physical fitness. It means not only medical but it includes everything; pilgrim must be physically fit to travel to Saudi Arabia and to complete every rite of Hajj, such as Tawaf and Saie, go to Mina and staying there and travelling to Arafat, Muzdalifah and back to Mina. All these pilgrims have to perform within a very short period of five or six days. That’s why you need to be physically fit.

It requires that Pilgrim must consult his GP about his health and take all other medicines that he requires. For this, it is necessary to make the pilgrims aware about their health and safety. For the last twelve years, the ABH has been carrying out this voluntary service of making people aware about the necessity of health and safety.

The second important thing is financial and economic aspects about which the pilgrims must have information. It is already said that those who are financially solvent Hajj is only obligatory for them, not for those who are not financially capable to bear their expenses. So far as the financial aspect is concerned, it is not only the financial solvency, it requires to have information and knowledge of all other relevant aspects and issues related to it, such as tickets, accommodation and also the expenses to be incurred during the period of staying. Nowadays, travel agents or tour operators are offering Hajj package. Pilgrims need to know about the terms and conditions of the Hajj package, the genuineness of the tour operators and all other issues related to it.

The third important thing is the religious aspect, i.e. to know the details bits and pieces about different rites of Hajj from Makkah, Mina, Arafat, Muzdalifah and Mina and other related issues.

Fourthly, pilgrims must be aware about the service and benefits they can get when they are in Saudi Arabia. About this, there is British Hajj Delegation which has been operating since 1998 and for the last twelve years, the British Hajj Delegation in cooperation with the British Consular officials and staff carried out both the medical and consular services. The Foreign & Commonwealth Office has already distributed a leaflet – Hajjis – which informs, instructs and explains pilgrims what they have to do (see below).

Besides these, I think and I have seen many people want to know about the situation in tawaf, saie, tents in Arafat and stoning in Jamarat. Recently, people also wanted to know about the transportation. About this, they must be informed. The facilities provided by the Saudi Authorities in Makkah, Mina, Muzdalifah and Arafat, I would like to inform and aware the pilgrims in the next issue.

Hajj is an obligatory duty in a lifetime for every capable, both physically and financially to perform Hajj in a lifetime. It is one of the five pillars of Islam. As it is an obligatory duty, it is essential that every Muslim who is planning to go for Hajj is to make himself abreast about different aspects of Hajj. It is necessary to know about the social, economical, moral, educational and religious aspects of Hajj.

That’s why there is a necessity to create awareness among the pilgrims. In both Muslim and Muslim minority countries, there is arrangement to give some training to the pilgrims about Hajj. It is done both at the government level as well as at the non-governmental level, by voluntary organisation or at the travel tours level.

Mosques played an important role everywhere irrespective of Muslim majority and Muslim minority countries to inform pilgrims, train them, giving them a brief introduction and training how to perform Hajj and what are its different rites.

British Hajj Delegation
Recently, the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) has distributed a leaflet entitled “HAJJIS” which instructs and informs British Muslims what they have to do. Let us begin with what it said to British Muslims:

The Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) know how deeply important the Hajj is to all those who attend it. This year thousands of British Nationals will attend the Hajj. The aim of the FCO Hajjis leaflet is to assist British Hajjis in preparing for the Hajj and to explain what services the British Hajj Delegation can offer British pilgrims in Saudi Arabia.

Health
The Saudi Ministry of Health has now established 21 hospitals to provide health care to pilgrims free of charge. Make sure that you have been vaccinated with the quadrivalent meningococcal vaccine (ACWY). You will be required to produce a valid vaccination certificate. Consult your GP if you are in any doubt.

The FCO also strongly recommends that travellers to the Hajj have a seasonal influenza vaccination prior to embarking on the trip.

For more information on health advice for travellers, visit http://www.nathnac.org/Hajj and http://www.fitfortravel.scot.nhs.uk/

Arrival and Departure
Travel within Saudi Arabia will be limited to Makkah, Madinah, Mina, Arafat and Muzdalifah. If you choose to travel elsewhere your travel agent will need to inform the Tawafa Establishment giving at least 24 hours notice. Pilgrims travel by buses provided by the General Cars Syndicate, using coupons provided by the Tawafa Establishment.

Help and Assistance
This year thousands of British Nationals will attend the Hajj. We hope that, like many thousands of Hajjis, you will have a trouble-free Hajj. However, if something does go wrong, the British Hajj Delegation, working with the British Consulate-General can provide you with a range of consular services. The information on this website can also be found on our Hajj leaflet which can be downloaded in English, Urdu, Bengali and Arabic.

The British Hajj delegation will be located at the Elaf Al Khalil Hotel (see Useful Contact Details below).

The Delegation can:
*provide information on how to transfer money
*arrange for replacement passports
*provide appropriate help if you are a victim of crime or are ill or in hospital
*do all we properly can to contact you within 24 hours of being told that you have been detained
*make special arrangements in case of civil disturbances or natural disasters
*provide contact details for local lawyers and provide a list of medical facilities
*arrange for next of kin to be told of an accident or a death and advise on procedures

The Delegation cannot:
*provide medical care
*become involved in private disagreements e.g. pilgrim and tour operator disputes
*rearrange travel bookings
*pay your hotel, legal, medical or travel bills
*get you out of prison
*give legal advice
*intervene in court cases
*investigate a crime

Travellers Checklist
Check the FCO travel advice to make sure that you are up-to-date with the situation in Saudi Arabia at www.fco.gov/travel or call 0845 850 2829. Check that you have the correct tickets and ticket details. Make sure that you book your tickets through an ATOL registered tour operator to avoid unnecessary difficulties. For more information please visit www.atol.org.uk.

Have contact details for your tour operator in the UK and their representatives in Makkah. Get travel insurance for all aspects of your journey. Shariah compliant insurance policies are available.

Check that you have had the required vaccinations for your pilgrimage and that you have vaccination cards with you.

Ensure that your passport is in good condition and the necessary visas are in place. Make copies of your passport, insurance policy plus emergency numbers and ticket details. Leave these copies, your itinerary and correct contact details with family and friends.

Individuals on medication should make sure that they have adequate quantities to get them through the Hajj period. Existing medication should be clearly labelled for each individual.

Ensure you have good quality footwear as you may have to walk long distances.

Ensure all your luggage is clearly labelled by placing stickers both on the outside and inside of your luggage showing your name, nationality, passport number, air carrier, flight number, hotel name and a contact telephone number.

Make sure you have the contact details of the Hajj Delegation and local consulate.

Please note any kind of photography (still or video) is strictly prohibited inside and around the two Holy Mosques. Anybody violating this will have their equipment and material confiscated.

Useful Contact Information in Saudi Arabia
Elaf Al-Khalil Hotel
Ibrahim Al-Khaleel Street
Al-Misfalah
Behind the Hilton Towers
Tel: 02 573 2555
Fax: 02 573 2666
British Consulate General, Jeddah:
Tel.: 02 622 5550
Fax: 02 622 6249