MAKKAH — For Japanese pilgrims, Zineb el Farissi and her husband Yasser el Farissi, Hajj 2020 was something very unique and special. “The whole Hajj experience was beyond expectation. Applying for Hajj this year amid the pandemic was special indeed.”
The couple said that they did not hesitate to apply to perform the major Islamic pilgrimage this year when they heard about all the precautions and preparations taken by the Saudi Government to secure a safe journey for pilgrims, with the world in the grip of the coronavirus pandemic.
“Alhamdulillah when we got accepted it was a true joy, and we were very excited to take part in this lifetime pilgrim journey.
“Shortly after being accepted, we were contacted by some official at the Ministry of Hajj, who briefed us about the whole process in a very clear way, guiding us through all the preparations, and telling us about the precautions that we have to take for Hajj.”
The couple were then contacted by an official at the Ministry of Health, “who guided us through the steps of doing the necessary health checks including the meningitis vaccine and coronavirus test. After this, we were asked to follow a period of strict quarantine at home to ensure our safety and the safety of other participants.”
“We then moved to Makkah on Saturday (July 25) to complete our quarantine here at the hotel. The journey from Riyadh to Makkah was very smooth, with exemplary hospitality at the hotel. The team leaders were constantly communicating with us and providing us with all the support and help on every aspect of our stay.”
In a nutshell, the couple’s verdict on Hajj 2020 organization: It is beyond expectations.
“Everything was well prepared and thought of. May All reward all the organizers from the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Media. Lastly, we feel really blessed for being chosen for the Hajj this year and we are very grateful to God and to the Saudi Government for all the hospitality,” the couple said.
Saudi Gazette
