JEDDAH – Prince Abdulaziz Bin Saud Bin Naif, minister of interior and chairman of the Supreme Hajj Committee, has congratulated Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman on the occasion of Eid Al-Adha and the success of this year's Haj season, Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported Wednesday.

In his cable addressed to the King, he said:

“On my own behalf and on behalf of the princes and ministers, members of the Supreme Hajj Committee, Emirs of Regions, security men and all personnel of government and private agencies participating in this year's Haj works, I extend the best and sincerest congratulations and expressions of loyalty on the occasion of the blessed Eid Al-Adha. May Allah Almighty accompany such occasions with His blessings and bounty.

“I congratulate you on the success achieved in this year's Haj season 1440 AH, in line with your wise directives and aspirations on taking care of the Guests of Allah and providing all services and facilities to the pilgrims to perform their rituals with ease, comfort, security and tranquility, including the Makkah Route Initiative (MRI) launched three years ago, which was one of the fruits of your wise directives.

“The number of pilgrims reached 2,489,406, and the Haj season this year was characterized by the successful implementation of all security, preventive, organizational, services and traffic plans.

“The arrival of pilgrims in Arafat, and then their Nafrah or movement to Muzdalifah and to Mina holy site was achieved in record time.

“The pilgrims then proceeded to the stoning of the Jamarat (with pebbles each the size of a chickpea) and flocked to the Grand Holy Mosque to perform Tawaf Al-Ifadah (circumambulation of the Holy Kaaba) and complete their Haj rituals, in implementation of the guidance of the Prophet (peace be upon him).

“The security situation was stable with no incidents affecting the security of pilgrims or disturbing the Haj, due to strict discipline and close monitoring and control of the situation and movement, with an integrated system of services, facilities and security and health care and streamlined traffic flow in a healthy environment free of diseases and epidemics.

“I pray to Allah Almighty to reward you greatly for the great care and attention you accord to the Two Holy Mosques and to their visitors, including pilgrims, Umrah performers and visitors.” – SPA