Algerian Red Crescent Volunteers Accompany, Assist First Hajj Pilgrims Departing from Algiers

✏️ BY: Dr. Hana Saada

Algiers, Algeria | May 20, 2024 —  In a significant display of dedication and service, volunteers from the Algerian Red Crescent provided comprehensive support and guidance to the first group of Hajj pilgrims departing from Houari Boumediene Airport in Algiers. This initiative aims to ensure a smooth and well-organized journey for the pilgrims heading to the holy sites in Saudi Arabia.

The departure of the first group of Hajj pilgrims is a momentous event, deeply rooted in religious and cultural significance. The assistance provided by the Algerian Red Crescent not only facilitates a smoother journey but also embodies the values of compassion and solidarity inherent in the Algerian society.

High-Level Officials Send Off Pilgrims with Best Wishes and Support

The first group of Algerian pilgrims departed on Monday from Houari Boumediene International Airport in Algiers, heading to the Holy Sites to perform the Hajj rituals for the 1445 Hijri/2024 season. This initial group comprised around 70 pilgrims along with 160 members of the national Hajj mission.

The pilgrims were seen off by an array of high-ranking officials, including the Minister of Foreign Affairs and National Community Abroad, Ahmed Attaf, the Minister of Religious Affairs and Endowments, Youcef Belmehdi, the Minister of Communication, Mohamed Laagab, the Minister of Transport, Mohamed El-Habib Zahana, and the Director General of the National Office of Pilgrimage and Umrah (ONPO), Salah Bouterfa.

Also present to bid farewell were the Director General of Civil Protection, Boughelaf Boualem, the Director General of Customs, Major General Abdelhafid Bakhouche, the Director General of Air Algérie, Hamza Benhamouda, the CEO of the Algiers Airport Services and Infrastructure Management Company (SGSIA), Mokhtar Said Mediouni, as well as representatives from various ministerial sectors, official bodies, and the Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to Algeria, Abdullah Bin Nasser Al Bussairi.

During the send-off, Minister Belmehdi emphasized that organizing the Hajj is a “national mission for which the country’s high authorities have mobilized the necessary material and human resources.” He highlighted the decision by the President of the Republic to cover the transportation costs for pilgrims residing in the South and extreme South of the country to the departure airports in various wilayas.

Adhering to National Hajj Mission Guidelines

“The government, following the President’s directives, has provided all the necessary means to support the pilgrims, as evidenced by the coordination between the different sectors involved in organizing this operation,” added Minister Belmehdi. He urged the pilgrims to “represent Algeria in the best possible manner throughout their stay at the Holy Sites” and to “adhere to the guidelines of the national Hajj mission members.”

“From today, flights reserved for pilgrims will continue across 12 airports nationwide,” he noted, ensuring that “everything is ready to ensure the smooth conduct of the operation.” Reflecting on the organizational process for this year’s Hajj, the Director General of ONPO, Salah Bouterfa, stressed that “thanks to the combined efforts of all relevant sectors, all measures were taken within the stipulated timeframes.”

The Saudi Ambassador to Algeria, Abdullah Bin Nasser Al Bussairi, also remarked that the authorities in Saudi Arabia “have completed all preparations to welcome the pilgrims,” praising the performance of the Algerian mission, which he described as “one of the most remarkable missions, based on feedback received at the end of each Hajj season.”

This significant send-off highlights the comprehensive and coordinated efforts by Algerian authorities to ensure that their citizens can perform the Hajj with ease, comfort, and dignity. As the Hajj season progresses, the ongoing support and organization promise a successful pilgrimage for all participants.

Hajj 2024-1445h: President Tebboune Calls on Pilgrims to Be the Best Ambassadors of Algeria

In a heartfelt message, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune called on Algerian pilgrims embarking on the Hajj to represent their country with pride and dignity. His remarks came as the first group of pilgrims departed from Houari Boumediene International Airport in Algiers to the Holy Sites of Islam.

“Tomorrow, God willing, the first flight of our pilgrims will take place. I pray to the Almighty Allah to ease your journey, may your Hajj be accepted. Be the best ambassadors of your country and return safely,” President Tebboune wrote on his official social media accounts.

The President’s message underscores the significance of this spiritual journey, urging the pilgrims to carry the values and pride of Algeria with them. His words resonate deeply with the nation’s efforts to ensure that their citizens not only fulfill their religious obligations but also showcase the best of Algerian hospitality and culture.

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