Wukuf safari aims to ease Hajj for vulnerable pilgrims: govt

The wukuf safari scheme is a solution to enable physically weak pilgrims to perform the wukuf ritual while minimizing health risks, Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs, Muhammad Syafi'i, has said.

"I believe that the wukuf safari is truly helpful for at-risk, dementia, and elderly pilgrims. Today, I learned that all of them are in good hands," he added while greeting pilgrims upon their arrival at a transit hotel in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, on Tuesday.

The wukuf safari allows vulnerable pilgrims to perform wukuf—a key Hajj ritual involving staying on the plain of Arafat—on board buses.

Under the special arrangement, pilgrims are transported from the transit hotel to Arafat at scheduled times, accompanied by medics and Hajj officers.

Syafi'i reassured pilgrims that the wukuf ritual is still valid even if they remain on board buses.

"To those set to participate in the wukuf safari, rest assured that your Hajj will be valid if you arrive at the Arafat plain by the ninth of Dhu al-Hijjah. There is nothing to worry about," he told them.

He then encouraged them to focus on the rituals and leave technical matters to Hajj officers.

He also noted that all services at the transit hotel were well-prepared. Hajj officers stationed at the hotel have genuine care and affection for vulnerable pilgrims, he observed.

"The officers are very responsive and do not hesitate to show affection. This is very touching for me," he said.

However, he highlighted the need to improve the Zamzam holy water distribution service at the hotel.

He further suggested that Hajj officers set proper working shifts to minimize fatigue, ensuring smooth processes throughout the wukuf safari.

"The hardest part is not helping pilgrims disembark the buses, but assisting them to re-embark for the journey to Arafat. With well-organized shifts and nutritious meals, I believe everything will go smoothly," he said.