1,000 Egyptian relatives of army, police, and victims of violent acts reach Mecca

CAIRO – 18 August 2018: A total of 1,000 Egyptian relatives of army and police forces, and victims of violent acts have arrived to Mecca on Friday to perform Hajj (pilgrimage) upon an invitation from King Salman bin Abdel Aziz and as part of the king's Hajj Guests Program, annually supervised by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance.

The pilgrims include the parents of the victims who lost their lives during the terrorist attack that hit Al Rawda village in Bir al-Abd city, North Sinai in Nov. 2017.

Colonel Tamer Refae, the military spokesman, published a video clip for the 1,000 pilgrims travelling from Cairo to Mecca.



In a statement, Minister of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance Sheikh Abdullatif bin Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh announced that this year the Kingdom is welcoming its guests from all over the world noting that thousands of male and female pilgrims have benefited from this program since it started 22 years ago.

Upon reaching Mecca, the program organizers arranged a welcome reception offering them flowers and Zamzam water celebrating their arrival.

Additionally, they provided them with room keys, mobile SIM cards and bags filled with all needed equipment for pilgrimage.

The pilgrims expressed their happiness and gratitude to King Salman who invited them in recognition of their sacrifice in defending and protecting their homeland.

The King stressed the need to ensure a peaceful and reassuring atmosphere during Hajj as part of his constant concern to serve Islam and Muslims.