Hajj minister says Saudi Arabia’s tech triumph ensured successful season

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The efforts exerted by the government to ensure a hassle-free Hajj and the facilities provided to pilgrims at different levels were highly praised, most notably the health precautions of social distancing and adhering to health requirements. (SPA)
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Updated 17 October 2020
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Hajj minister says Saudi Arabia’s tech triumph ensured successful season

  • Kingdom harnesses all its potential to make pilgrims feel at home, prioritizing their safety: Muhammad Saleh Benten

JEDDAH: The Saudi Hajj and Umrah Ministry has shared some of the secrets behind what made the “exceptional” 2020 Hajj season a success, with zero transmitted cases of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In an exclusive interview with Arab News, Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dr. Muhammad Saleh bin Taher Benten said that the government utilized the latest technology to improve the pilgrim experience this season.
Speaking about his ministry’s efforts in preventing the spread of COVID-19, Benten said that it implemented precautionary measures in every phase of the pilgrimage, starting with the pilgrims being quarantined at home.
It also introduced institutional quarantine from the fourth to the eighth day of the Hajj, gave pilgrims electronic bracelets and enforced social distancing.
“For the second consecutive year, the ministry used the electronic platform through the ‘smart card’ application, taking into account the pilgrims’ special needs in terms of the journey’s organization and management,” he said. “The platform is a digital ID granted to the pilgrim that is directly linked with the ‘Smart Hajj’ application supervised by the ministry.”
He added that the digital ID contains the pilgrims’ personal, health and housing information, such as the numbers of their group, and which bus seat and bed has been allocated to them.
“It also enables pilgrims to know their special program, gathering points and times of departure. Moreover, the ministry registered pilgrims electronically by using an interactive platform that links 52 systems and is complemented by 30 governmental and nongovernmental bodies,” he added.
Relying on those services, the minister said, came as part of the ministry’s strategy to establish virtual platforms that reduce procedures, and keep pace with the technical development required to achieve the Saudi Vision 2030 goal to serve pilgrims.
With every Hajj season having its own challenges, the Hajj and Umrah Ministry has enjoyed success after success. However, the 2020 season put the ministry to an unprecedented test.
“As every year, Saudi Arabia harnesses all its potential and energies to make the Hajj season a success, prioritizing the safety and security of the pilgrims.

FASTFACTS

• When Saudi Arabia took the decision to hold Hajj for a limited number of people, it was keen to comply with all health and precautionary measures.

• This step was taken based on scientific decisions and thorough research studies that would ensure that pilgrims can perform Hajj rituals safely.

• The ministry and all Hajj-related authorities have learned many lessons from the last Hajj experience, where social distancing was implemented.

“However, last year’s Hajj was a little different with the whole world facing the COVID-19 outbreak. During the 2020 Hajj season, the Saudi government faced a rare and unprecedented challenge, and thanks to God, the Kingdom was able to address it,” he said.
He added: “When Saudi Arabia took the decision to hold Hajj for a limited number of people, it was keen to comply with all health and precautionary measures. This step was taken based on scientific decisions and thorough research studies that would ensure that pilgrims could perform Hajj rituals safely.”
He said that the efforts exerted by the Saudi government in this regard and the various facilities provided to pilgrims at different levels were highly praised, most notably the health precautions of social distancing and adhering to health requirements.
The ministry and all Hajj-related authorities have learned many lessons from the last Hajj experience, where social distancing was implemented. The minister shed light on the most notable lessons, and how they can benefit future seasons.
“The ministry implemented social distancing protocols in all phases of the pilgrims moving between the holy sites through limiting the seating capacity of buses to 50 percent,” said Benten.
As for the residence of pilgrims, officials conducted tests for all pilgrims and workers and assigned health observers to ensure guidelines were maintained.
He added: “Moreover, 49-seat buses were assigned to each group of 22 passengers, and Hajj routes were fixed in a way to achieve social distancing. These measures resulted in zero transmission of COVID-19 between pilgrims and their service providers.”
As many government officials have said in the past, preparations for the next Hajj season begin as soon as the previous iteration ends.
One of the advantages of the extraordinary 2020 season was that the ministry could accelerate projects in the holy sites.
Benten told Arab News that his ministry works every year on developing the services provided for pilgrims, to enrich their experience through providing diverse programs and initiatives.
“The ministry always benefits from the accumulated experiences, large-scale projects and personnel to provide the finest services with the best levels for pilgrims,” he said. “One of those initiatives that benefited the ministry, which will continue to implement it in the future, is the preparation and improvement of the holy sites, the preparation of a comprehensive scheme to expand the capacity and receive the largest number of pilgrims in order to achieve comfort, security, safety and environmental dimensions, reduce pollution and study spatial dimensions.”
He added that the ministry aims for a record time reception of pilgrims through the unified center to analyze data, enhancing crowd control efficiency and rapid intervention, reducing time to organize pilgrims, and distributing them equally.
The Hajj and Umrah companies have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic; with some failing to meet their obligations towards their employees.
“The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has provided a myriad of facilities to these companies since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic through developing work and encouraging mergers and investments in Umrah companies,” Benten said.
He added that the ministry has also contributed to reducing the value of financial security for nondefaulting active Umrah companies to SR250,000 ($66,666) for six months.
“The ministry also authorized Umrah companies to reduce their capital in the commercial register to SR500,000 ($133,332), close their doors for one year, and postpone payment of nonessential violations for six months,” said Benten.
The ministry launched the business clinics unit, which is one of its programs aimed at helping companies review their mechanisms and operational plans.
“The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah will also be organizing many workshops and training programs for Umrah companies on strategies to recover from the COVID-19 crisis and the means of developing their business with efficiency,” he concluded.


‘Color Your Summer’ program reflects Saudi diversity, targets 41m visitors

Updated 15 sec ago
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‘Color Your Summer’ program reflects Saudi diversity, targets 41m visitors

The Saudi Tourism Authority has launched “Color Your Summer,” a program showcasing Saudi Arabia’s natural and cultural diversity, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday. The initiative will run until the end of September.

Activities will be hosted in six main destinations “that blend the sea and mountains and merge adventure with relaxation.”

The STA expects the program to attract more than 41 million visitors from inside and outside the Kingdom this year, with projected tourism spending surpassing SR73 billion ($19.47 billion).

Asir will host its Summer Season, featuring “a rich array of musical, artistic, and cultural events such as Al-Muftaha Village and the Plato Event,” as well as “adventure trails and outdoor activities amid lofty mountains and pleasant weather, while the region’s ancient stone houses evoke a rich cultural memory, adding an authentic touch for visitors.”

The STA, in partnership with Jazeera Airways, recently announced that direct flights from Kuwait to Asir will be available three times a week from July 15 until the end of September, strengthening the airline’s presence in the Saudi market and supporting the authority’s efforts to promote various summer destinations in the Kingdom.

Meanwhile, Riyadh will make its mark this summer by hosting the second Esports World Cup from July 8 to Aug. 24, which is set to attract visitors from around the world. “The city is also a hub for artistic and cultural events and a variety of entertainment shows throughout the summer,” the SPA stated.

Jeddah will be welcoming visitors with new beaches and luxury resorts this summer, and its diverse selection of marine activities and “relaxation events” make it “the right place for family and water sports enthusiasts alike,” the SPA wrote, adding: “Visitors can explore City Walk and circus performances at Circus 1903.”

Sheybarah and Ummahat islands will also be featured as part of the Kingdom’s luxury tourism network. “With their white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and colorful coral reefs, the islands add a maritime adventure to the portfolio of the Kingdom’s destinations,” the SPA stated.

Taif will greet its summer visitors this year with “refreshing mountain breezes and the fragrant blooms of Taif roses in Arruddaf Park, nestled between traditional markets and lush orchards,” according to the SPA. “Meanwhile, Al-Shafa and Al-Hada mountains cast a magical misty aura, providing experiences for adventure and culture enthusiasts steeped in the city’s rich heritage and history.”

And in Baha, visitors will encounter “stunning natural beauty from the heights of the mountains to the depths of the valleys in Raghadan Forest.”


Kingdom arrests 12,066 illegals in one week

Updated 11 min 15 sec ago
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Kingdom arrests 12,066 illegals in one week

RIYADH: Saudi authorities arrested 12,066 people in one week for breaching residency, work and border security regulations, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

A total of 7,333 people were arrested for violations of residency laws, while 3,060 were held over illegal border crossing attempts, and a further 1,673 for labor-related issues.

The report showed that among the 1,206 people arrested for trying to enter the Kingdom illegally, 65 percent were Ethiopian, 32 percent Yemeni, and 3 percent were of other nationalities.

A further 71 people were caught trying to cross into neighboring countries, and 21 were held for involvement in transporting and harboring violators, the SPA reported.

The Ministry of Interior said that anyone found to be facilitating illegal entry to the Kingdom, including providing transportation and shelter, could face imprisonment for a maximum of 15 years, a fine of up to SR1 million ($260,000), as well as confiscation of vehicles and property.

Suspected violations can be reported on the toll-free number 911 in the Makkah and Riyadh regions, and 999 or 996 in other regions of the Kingdom.


Saudi Arabia supports refugees with 357 aid projects

Updated 24 min 42 sec ago
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Saudi Arabia supports refugees with 357 aid projects

  • Refugee numbers have risen globally
  • Saudi Arabia hosts refugees from Syria, Yemen, and Myanmar

JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia has strengthened its humanitarian role in refugee issues worldwide through KSrelief, which has carried out 3,438 projects in 107 countries, costing more than $7.9 billion.

Among these, 357 projects support refugees, with nearly $497 million spent in Yemen, Somalia, the Syrian Arab Republic, Myanmar, Palestine, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Ukraine, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, focusing on food security, health, shelter, education, and protection.

Refugee numbers have risen globally, with 52 percent originating from Syria (6.5 million), Afghanistan (5.7 million), and Ukraine (5.7 million).

At least 76 percent of displaced people live in low- or middle-income countries, increasing the humanitarian challenge, according to the SPA.

Saudi Arabia hosts refugees from Syria, Yemen, and Myanmar, about 5.5 percent of its population, offering free education, healthcare, and work opportunities under a policy respecting human rights and promoting charity.

These efforts reflect the Kingdom’s humanitarian commitment, highlighted on World Refugee Day on June 20, established by the UN to raise awareness of global displacement.

Saudi Arabia continues to enhance its humanitarian role through partnerships and initiatives focused on human rights and dignity, the SPA reported.


Saudi, Italian officials discuss parliamentary ties

Updated 28 min 25 sec ago
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Saudi, Italian officials discuss parliamentary ties

RIYADH: The speaker of Saudi Arabia’s Shoura Council, Sheikh Abdullah Al-Asheikh, met with Saudi-Italian Parliamentary Friendship Committee Chairman Marco Osnato and other Italian MPs during the second Parliamentary Conference on Interfaith Dialogue in Rome, Italy, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

Osnato welcomed Al-Asheikh and highlighted the strong cooperation and excellent relations between Saudi Arabia and Italy at various levels, as well as praising the Kingdom’s “constructive role in promoting international peace and stability while avoiding conflicts,” the SPA reported.

The Shoura Council speaker “hailed the fraternal ties and emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral relations to serve the shared interests of both countries and their peoples.”

During the meeting, the two officials reviewed existing bilateral relations and “explored ways to enhance and advance them across various sectors.”

At the three-day conference, the president of the Italian Chamber of Deputies, Lorenzo Fontana, emphasized the vital role of parliaments and the conference’s significance in building bridges and promoting mutual understanding.

Parliamentarians engaged in panel discussions focused on “fostering mutual understanding, combating hate speech, and promoting a shared future among people worldwide,” the SPA stated.


How Saudi Arabia’s native wildflowers play a vital role in sustainability

Updated 21 June 2025
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How Saudi Arabia’s native wildflowers play a vital role in sustainability

  • The Kingdom blooms with wildflowers each spring, marking renewal, supporting biodiversity, and enriching cultural traditions
  • Hummayd, a native desert herb, thrives in arid climates and is prized in Saudi culinary and ecological heritage

JEDDAH: In the vast deserts of Saudi Arabia, a humble, yet remarkable, wildflower makes its mark each spring — Rumex vesicarius, known locally as hummayd.

Native to the Arabian Peninsula, this fast-growing plant thrives in sandy soils and plays a significant role in both the natural ecosystem and local culinary traditions.

“Hummayd is an annual herbaceous plant native to Saudi Arabia and widely distributed across its regions,” Arwa Alotaibi, a native plant researcher, told Arab News.

“Scientifically known as Rumex vesicarius, it belongs to the Polygonaceae family, commonly referred to as the dock or sorrel family.”

Hummayd is well adapted to desert conditions and is often found flourishing in arid environments. Its triangular green leaves and red or green flowers distinguish it from other wild plants. It typically grows to around half a meter in height and remains evergreen throughout its life cycle.

Due to its drought tolerance and minimal water requirements, hummayd is suited to Saudi Arabia’s harsh urban and desert climates, said Alotaibi.

“It is particularly abundant in the southern regions of the Kingdom, where rainfall is more consistent, followed by the Hijaz region, Najd, and the northern areas.”

Rumex vesicarius, known locally as hummayd, is an annual herbaceous plant native to Saudi Arabia and widely distributed across its regions. (SPA)

For generations, hummayd has held a special place in Saudi culinary traditions.

The plant can be eaten raw, with bread, or incorporated into tangy stews, Alotaibi said. In the Jazan region, it is especially prized for its unique acidic flavor.

“Rich in vitamin C, the plant aids digestion and helps reduce water retention, making it both flavorful and nutritious.”

Its cultural relevance is captured in a well-known Saudi proverb: “Spring has arrived with the coming of hummayd,” signifying the plant’s role as a seasonal marker of renewal and abundance.

Beyond its culinary and cultural value, hummayd is also ecologically beneficial, serving as vegetative ground cover, helping to stabilize hillsides, rehabilitate degraded land, and enrich green open spaces.

“Its presence supports biodiversity in desert ecosystems, providing a food source for animals such as camels, sheep, and rabbits,” Alotaibi said.

It is a tough plant that grows well in sandy, dry areas with very little water. It can survive harsh desert conditions and still remain green. (SPA)

As such, with its resilience, versatility, and deep cultural roots, hummayd is more than just a wildflower — it is a symbol of spring, sustainability, and Saudi heritage.

During spring, the Kingdom bursts with a bouquet of delicately fragranced wildflowers, blanketing the normally sandy landscape with a beautiful color palette.

The typical blooming period starts from February to April, with slight variations depending on plant type and geographic elevation. Some flowers may bloom as early as January, especially in the warmer southern regions, while others in elevated areas flower later.

“Wildflowers bloom across Saudi Arabia each year, with blooming seasons varying by region depending on plant type and climate,” Alstine Van Joshua, co-founder of the Saudi Botanical Society, told Arab News.

“In general, wildflowers bloom during spring, especially after winter rains when temperatures become moderate and there is sufficient soil moisture.”

Humaid (Rumex vesicarius) is an edible wildflower that blooms in the Saudi desert during the spring. It is seen as a sign the season of growth and renewal has arrived. (SPA)

In the northern regions, areas such as Jouf experience a burst of wildflowers following winter rainfall, while in the southern highlands, areas such as Asir and Al-Baha, known for their cooler climate and high elevations, support a wide range of wildflower species.

Najran and Jazan also boast rich plant diversity, especially among the region’s deep valleys and high mountain areas.

Even in the Kingdom’s eastern and central deserts, wild desert flowers grow in sandy and wadi environments, typically after prolonged rainfall.

These plants are highly adapted to the harsh climate and require minimal water, making them an effective tool in combating desertification and restoring ecological balance.

It is a tough plant that grows well in sandy, dry areas with very little water. It can survive harsh desert conditions and still remain green. (SPA)

“Native plants contribute to biodiversity by providing natural habitats for various creatures, such as birds and bees,” said Van Joshua.

“Their value extends beyond the environment to include cultural and heritage dimensions, as they are traditionally used in folk medicine and decoration during social occasions, especially in regions such as Najran, Asir, and Jazan.

“Reviving this vegetation reflects a deep commitment to protecting nature, improving quality of life, reducing carbon emissions, and achieving net-zero goals.

“It also supports the creation of a more resilient and sustainable environment that secures natural resources and green spaces for future generations.”

DID YOU KNOW?

• Hummayd has triangular evergreen leaves and blooms in red or green flowers. 

• It grows mostly in southern Saudi Arabia, but is found throughout the Kingdom. 

• The plant is rich in vitamin C and aids digestion. 

• It can be eaten raw, with bread, or cooked as a sour stew. 

The preservation of local vegetation is closely linked to environmental sustainability, and is considered one of the main pillars of reforestation projects and the rehabilitation of degraded lands.

Indeed, these plants play a vital role in stabilizing soil, preventing erosion, enhancing rainwater absorption, and restoring soil fertility. In doing so, they support biodiversity by providing natural habitats for wildlife and contribute to ecosystem recovery and stability.

“In the face of relentless drought, blazing sun, and cold desert nights, they stand with quiet grace, unyielding, patient, and strong beyond measure,” Munira Alhazani, CEO of the Saudi Botanical Society, told Arab News.

“These resilient plants reflect our own journey, the emotions we carry, the challenges we face, and the courage that blossoms in our darkest moments.

“It is our passion, a steadfast love for life, that fuels our onward journey. Yet beneath this strength lies a fragile hope, a whisper of fear that in a fleeting moment of weakness, they might tire, fade, and quietly disappear.”

People in Saudi Arabia eat Humaid raw or cooked for its sour taste and health benefits. It can aid digestion and is rich in vitamin C. (SPA)

Efforts to protect the Kingdom’s wildflowers align closely with the goals of the Saudi Green Initiative and the Middle East Green Initiative.

The Saudi Green Initiative aims to plant 10 billion trees within the Kingdom and rehabilitate 40 million hectares of degraded land, while also improving air quality and reducing carbon emissions.

On a regional scale, the Middle East Green Initiative seeks to plant 50 billion trees, including 40 billion outside the Kingdom, in what is considered the largest reforestation project of its kind.

The initiative aims to combat desertification, reduce emissions, and enhance the quality of life throughout the region.

“Local vegetation plays a direct and foundational role in achieving the objectives of these national and regional initiatives, as well as in supporting Saudi Vision 2030 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals,” said Van Joshua.

“Through these efforts, the Kingdom affirms its pioneering role in environmental protection — locally and regionally — while striving to build a more sustainable future and ensure a better quality of life for future generations.”