South African Muslims prepare for Hajj pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia
Over 2500 South African Muslims are set to embark on their Hajj pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia, with health guidelines in place to ensure their safety during this sacred journey.
In this elevated view from a hotel overlooking the Grand Mosque, Muslim worshippers and pilgrims gather around the Kaaba, Islam's holiest shrine, in the holy city of Mecca
Image: Rania SANJAR / AFP
AROUND 2500 South African Muslims are set to embark on their spiritual journey to Saudi Arabia for their hajj pilgrimage.
Every year, millions of Muslims from around the world gather in Mecca in Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj – the sacred Muslim pilgrimage.
The pilgrimage is mandatory for all Muslims to make at least once in their lives, provided they are physically and financially capable.
The first group of pilgrims from South Africa will leave on Monday, April 28, and will spend six weeks in Saudi Arabia.
Moaaz Casso, president of the South African Hajj and Umrah Council (SAHUC) said 50 SAHUC officials will form part of the Hajj mission, including doctors and nurses.
Casso said travellers were informed of the health guidelines and the do's and don'ts during Hajj.
"We had awareness programs to explain logistics and expectations. Travel operators and religious organisations had spiritual Hajj programs which were offered to all pilgrims," said Casso.
Among the medical requirements for travellers to Saudi Arabia is that people over 65-years old, pregnant women and those with chronic conditions such as heart disease, kidney failure and respiratory disease must provide proof of having had the Covid-19 vaccine.
During the period of hajj last year, five South Africans had died while performing the spiritual journey in Saudi Arabia.
"SAHUC and the travel operators will be available to assist and guide pilgrims from departure from South Africa until they return back to South Africa. It is normal to be anxious, nervous and excited as well as sad to leave your loved ones behind. Always remember that, you the pilgrims, are the honoured and privileged ambassadors of South Africa," said Casso.
South African Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Mogobo David Magabe said they will be working with their mission in Jeddah to provide the necessary support in terms of consular services.