Saudi Hotels Threaten to Ban Pilgrims Over Disruptive Behavior
Translated & summarized from Al-Shams by baba
Hotels in Mecca and Medina are threatening to stop accepting pilgrims from Israel due to incidents like smoking shisha in rooms, which caused carpet fires. Hashem Abdel Rahman of the Hajj and Umrah Committee stated that complaints have been filed, and some hotels now require financial guarantees. The committee is increasing awareness programs and has appointed representatives to monitor pilgrim behavior. Abdel Rahman also criticized the use of Hajj and Umrah for political campaign promises.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Saudi hotels in Mecca and Medina may refuse Israeli pilgrims due to disruptive behavior like smoking shisha.
- Incidents of shisha use in hotel rooms have reportedly caused carpet fires, leading to complaints.
- Some hotels are now demanding financial guarantees from tour operators to cover potential property damage.
- The Hajj and Umrah Committee is increasing awareness programs and appointing representatives to monitor pilgrims.
- Approximately 45,000 pilgrims from Israel visited in the last season, a significant increase from previous years.
Hotels in Mecca and Medina are considering refusing to host pilgrims from Israel due to disruptive behavior, including smoking shisha in rooms, which has led to carpet fires. Hashem Abdel Rahman, a member of the Hajj and Umrah Committee, revealed that the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and hotel administrations have filed complaints about these actions. He stated that such behavior violates hotel regulations and is particularly sensitive given the religious significance of Mecca and Medina. The complaints were relayed through organizing companies to the relevant authorities, including the Hajj and Umrah Committee. Abdel Rahman emphasized the importance of respecting the host country's laws and the institutions that receive visitors, urging pilgrims to present a positive image of Arab Muslims.
Some hotels that previously welcomed pilgrims from Israel are now expressing dissatisfaction and demanding financial guarantees from organizing companies to cover potential damages to property. Abdel Rahman expressed regret over these guarantees becoming a contractual requirement, warning that increased costs could lead to higher travel prices in the future. He stressed, however, that these actions should not be generalized to all pilgrims, noting that the majority maintain good conduct and have received positive service evaluations in past seasons. The number of pilgrims has significantly increased, reaching approximately 45,000 in the last season compared to 12,000 previously, highlighting the need for expanded awareness and behavioral monitoring efforts.
The Hajj and Umrah Committee is implementing awareness programs and distributing pledge forms for travelers to sign, committing to respect Saudi laws. The committee has also appointed representatives in Mecca and Medina to address pilgrim needs and resolve issues with hotels. While not yet considered a widespread phenomenon, Abdel Rahman warned that the continuation of such behavior could undermine the spiritual essence of Hajj and Umrah. He also criticized the exploitation of Hajj and Umrah for electoral promises, such as direct flights from Ben Gurion Airport or reducing costs to $500, stating these are not officially based and any arrangements must go through Saudi and Jordanian authorities.