Saudi Gazette report

JEDDAH — Makkah Emir Prince Khaled Al-Faisal inaugurated a three-day Umrah Forum and Exhibition here on Monday. The event, at Jeddah International Exhibition & Convention Center, is being organized by the Ministry of Haj and Umrah.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister of Haj and Umrah, Dr. Muhammad Benten said serving pilgrims and visitors of the Two Holy Mosques is the top priority.

"Makkah is receiving utmost care and attention in terms of planning and development, to be at the forefront of international cities and development,” Benten said.

"There are around one million pilgrims remaining in Makkah. The last batch of pilgrims will leave in the middle of Muharram (September). Our efforts will continue and we are ready to receive Umrah pilgrims from the first day of Muharram,” Benten added.

Addressing Prince Khaled, Benten said: “We all remember your statement when you said that the Kingdom does not know the impossible when it comes to serving the Two Holy Mosques and the pilgrims. We will do our best to serve them.”

Benten welcomed the guests and thanked them for participating in the forum and exhibition that will discuss strategies and regulations related to Umrah sector. "This forum represents a turning point in Umrah sector. The sessions will discuss preparation for Umrah season and will make sure all departments operating in umrah service, in the Kingdom and abroad, are ready,” the minister said.

Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dr. Abdul Fattah Mashat said that the Umrah Forum and Exhibition will hold more than 22 workshops and training seminars carried out by experts in pilgrim services. A total of 160 companies and service operators in the sector will showcase their latest services offered to worshipers.

Mashat added that the Umrah Forum and Exhibition will involve partnership agreements between providers of logistic services and Umrah service companies.

He said that the event aims to meet the objectives of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 reform plan by providing the best services to pilgrims.

The exhibition is expected to attract more than 20,000 visitors.