The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has initiated intensive inspections on hotels housing Egyptian pilgrims in Mecca and Medina. This move is part of the ministry's efforts to monitor the implementation of Hajj programs by tourism companies. The inspections aim to ensure that pilgrims receive quality services and that their rights are protected. The ministry has deployed committees to oversee the process, with a focus on verifying that companies adhere to approved programs and provide contracted services.
The committees, representing the Central Administration for Tourism Companies, are working around the clock to monitor the commitment of tourism companies to implementing approved Hajj programs. They are also identifying any observations that may impact the level of services provided and intervening promptly to resolve any issues. According to Samia Sami, Assistant Minister of Tourism and Antiquities for Tourism Companies and Chair of the Supreme Hajj and Umrah Committee, most tourism companies are adhering to their programs and providing agreed-upon services.
The ministry's committees are conducting on-site visits to hotels in Mecca and Medina to verify the implementation of approved programs and assess the level of services provided. They are also meeting with Egyptian pilgrims to gather feedback and address any concerns related to accommodation, transportation, or services included in the program. This approach enables the ministry to promptly address any issues and ensure that pilgrims' rights are protected.
The ministry has introduced an electronic application, "Rafiq," to enhance the digital monitoring of Umrah trips. The application allows pilgrims and tourism company supervisors to confirm departure from Egyptian ports, arrival at accommodation in Mecca and Medina, and return to Egypt. It also enables them to send observations or reports and track responses. This tool facilitates swift intervention and communication between the ministry's committees and pilgrims.
The "Rafiq" application provides real-time data on the implementation of Umrah programs, enabling the ministry to monitor the journey and verify that accommodation matches approved programs. This data also allows the operations room to track incoming observations and direct them to the relevant committee or tourism company for resolution.
The ministry has designated two offices in Saudi Arabia to receive Egyptian pilgrims and representatives of Egyptian tourism companies, addressing observations and complaints. These offices are located at the Makaram Ajyad hotel in Mecca and the Crown Plaza hotel in Medina. Pilgrims are encouraged to use the "Rafiq" application or visit these offices to report any issues or concerns.
The ministry's efforts aim to ensure a smooth and organized Hajj experience for Egyptian pilgrims. By conducting inspections, introducing digital tools, and providing dedicated support, the ministry is working to protect pilgrims' rights and provide high-quality services. The committees will continue to monitor the implementation of Hajj programs throughout the season.
Key points
- The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities is conducting intensive inspections on hotels housing Egyptian pilgrims in Mecca and Medina.
- The ministry has introduced an electronic application, "Rafiq," to enhance the digital monitoring of Umrah trips.
- The ministry has designated two offices in Saudi Arabia to receive Egyptian pilgrims and representatives of Egyptian tourism companies, addressing observations and complaints.
