JEDDAH — The first group of more than 80 British pilgrims arrived at the Haj Terminal in Jeddah from Manchester on Thursday. Consul General Seif Usher and a team from the Consulate were at the airport to welcome them to Saudi Arabia.
The consul general said: “I extend a warm welcome to all British nationals who will embark on the spiritual journey of Haj this year. I also welcome British tour operators who are leading groups of pilgrims. This year we expect over 25,000 British pilgrims to visit.
“The Saudi Ministry of Haj and local authorities take their responsibility very seriously and have comprehensive arrangements in place to ensure that pilgrims are able to fulfill this spiritual journey safely and with ease.
“I advise all British pilgrims to check the Foreign and Commonwealth Office’s travel advice and the requirements set out by the Saudi government.
“We have reinforced our consular team in Jeddah who will provide consular assistance and advice as necessary to British pilgrims. Consular staff can be contacted on a 24-hour helpline The emergency number is +966 5010 04268. We wish all peaceful Haj.”
British Haj pilgrims visiting Saudi Arabia can keep up-to-date with the FCO travel advice for Haj which also contains information about local emergency contacts and services available to pilgrims through this link https://www.gov.uk/government/news/travel-and-health-advice-for-haji-pilgrimsand follow @UKinSaudiArabia on Twitter for regular updates. — SG
