Rawaf Mina, the Saudi Arabian Mutawwif appointed to provide services for Maldivian pilgrims during Hajj, has assured that proper arrangements will be made for pilgrims from the Maldives during this year’s Hajj season.
The assurance was given during a meeting held with the Maldives Hajj Mission in Mecca.
Chief Executive Officer of Rawaf Mina, Zuhair bin Abdul Hamid Sadayo, met with the head of the Maldives Hajj Office in Mecca, Sheikh Imthithaau Abbas, along with other members of the Hajj Mission, as part of the discussions.
Mutawwifs are guides appointed by the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to facilitate services for Hajj pilgrims. Rawaf Mina has been appointed as the official Mutawwif for Maldivian pilgrims.
Discussions during the meeting focused on measures taken so far to provide services for Maldivian pilgrims, arrangements related to the Mashairs — the sacred sites visited during Hajj — and preparations being made ahead of the arrival of pilgrims in Mecca.
“Saudi Arabia is providing great support for all arrangements which require Mutawwifs. They assured that proper arrangements would be made during this Hajj season as well,” Sheikh Imthithaau Abbas said.
Mutawwifs are responsible for the welfare and overall facilitation of Hajj pilgrims throughout their pilgrimage.
Their responsibilities include welcoming pilgrims upon arrival in Mecca, arranging transportation, and providing food, water, and beverages. They also coordinate healthcare services and distribute Nusuk cards, which are essential official documents used to ensure the safety and identification of pilgrims, along with security bands used to facilitate assistance when required.
In addition, Mutawwifs conduct awareness activities and assist pilgrims with religious services throughout the Hajj period.
They are also responsible for arranging accommodation tents in Arafat and Mina, transportation within Mecca and to Medina and Jeddah, as well as ensuring hotels meet required standards. Mutawwifs also communicate with hotel managers, travel agents, and pilgrims regarding logistical matters.
In emergency situations, Mutawwifs coordinate ambulance services and healthcare assistance for patients.
“The new packages in Mina are very good. The number of toilets has been increased and cooking arrangements have also been added,” Rawaf Mina CEO Zuhair bin Abdul Hamid Sadayo said.
Mutawwifs provide services to pilgrims from their arrival in Saudi Arabia until the completion of their pilgrimage, helping to ensure a smoother and more organised Hajj experience for worshippers.