In a significant development, Saudi Arabia is in the final stages of constructing twelve residential towers in Mina, set to be completed in time for the next Hajj season. This initiative, spearheaded by Saad Al Qurashi, adviser to the National Committee for Hajj and Umrah, marks a crucial step in bolstering accommodation facilities for pilgrims.

Mina, situated six kilometers east of the Grand Mosque in Mecca, plays a pivotal role in the Hajj pilgrimage, with pilgrims staying overnight on the 8th, 11th, 12th, and sometimes even the 13th of Dhul Hijjah. Notably, Mina houses the Jamarat, the three stone pillars integral to the Hajj rituals.

Al Qurashi underscored that the completion of these towers aligns with the upcoming Hajj, ensuring their full operational readiness for pilgrims. Stressing the importance of early registration for pilgrims from abroad, he emphasized that it allows them to secure preferred accommodations, including nearby hotels and camps.

Moreover, authorities in Mecca have licensed 166 buildings to accommodate Muslim pilgrims during the upcoming Hajj pilgrimage. This licensing, facilitated by a dedicated Hajj housing committee, is an ongoing process, with applications being accepted until next month as part of early preparations for the annual pilgrimage.