By Mohammad Saud
Okaz/Saudi Gazette
MAKKAH — A British pilgrim performed Haj 30 times and led a group of British pilgrims through the pilgrimage this Haj season.
Briton Mustapha Mohammad said he is the leader and guide of 200 pilgrims from Great Britain.
“I translate for them and guide them through the Haj rituals. I feel proud to pay my duty in helping the pilgrims of my country. It’s been some years since I’ve been working with the Tawafa Association. Performing Haj costs SR25,000 if you are coming from the United Kingdom,” said Mohammad.
He added he is happy to be the guide for pilgrims who perform Haj for the first time.
“They are usually so scared about it because it is all new to them. But the happiness on their faces when they complete their pilgrimage is priceless. I gained experience through the many years I performed Haj. I became knowledgeable about my religion and I built a network of people who can help and guide me,” said Mohammad.
He added the Kingdom is doing its best to make Haj as easy as possible.
“I, myself, have four sons and they have all performed Haj alongside their mother under my guidance. My own father performed Haj twice. His first time was in 1964,” said Mohammad.
British pilgrim Mohammad Atheem said he has performed Haj 10 times in his life.
“I never faced any issues when performing Haj. First-timers are always nervous but they are happy to complete their Haj smoothly. We never face any harassment when we return from Haj to the United Kingdom. We have full right to practice our religion,” said Atheem.
