Umm Al-Qura University Opens Call for Research on Hajj and Umrah

The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Institute for Hajj and Umrah Research at Umm Al-Qura University has officially invited researchers and professionals from various sectors to submit abstracts for the upcoming 24th Scientific Forum on Hajj, Umrah, and Visit Research. The forum, scheduled for Jumada Al-Akhirah 1446 AH (December 2024), will focus on the theme of “excellence in transportation and crowd management,” reflecting Saudi Arabia’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the experience of millions of pilgrims and visitors each year. Researchers interested in contributing must submit their abstracts by Monday, Rabie’ Al-Awal 20, 1446 AH (September 23, 2024), with full scientific papers due by Monday, Rabie’ Al-Thani 18, 1446 AH (October 21, 2024).

Context and Background

The Scientific Forum on Hajj, Umrah, and Visit Research is a biennial event organized by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Institute for Hajj and Umrah Research, a leading research body under Umm Al-Qura University in Makkah. The institute is dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge and practical solutions related to the management of religious pilgrimages, which are central to Saudi Arabia’s cultural and religious identity. This year’s edition, the 24th in the series, underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to leveraging research and innovation to improve the logistics, safety, and overall experience for pilgrims, aligning with broader national objectives under Vision 2030.

Key Details

The forum will explore four key thematic areas: strategic planning for transportation and crowd management, modern systems and technologies, sustainable practices, and health and safety enhancement. These topics are critical for managing the influx of millions of pilgrims during Hajj and Umrah seasons, ensuring smooth operations, and minimizing risks. The call for papers is open to researchers from academic, governmental, and private sectors, encouraging a multidisciplinary approach to tackle challenges and propose innovative solutions. The institute has emphasized the importance of submitting high-quality, original research that can inform policy and operational improvements.

Implications and Impact

The outcomes of this forum have direct implications for the efficiency and safety of Hajj and Umrah operations, which are managed by Saudi authorities, including the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and the General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques. By focusing on transportation and crowd management, the research presented could help reduce congestion, enhance emergency response systems, and improve the overall pilgrim experience. Internationally, the forum positions Saudi Arabia as a hub for research on pilgrimage management, fostering collaboration with global experts and institutions. This initiative also reinforces the Kingdom’s role as a leader in sustainable tourism and religious travel, a key component of its Vision 2030 strategic priorities.

Vision 2030 Alignment

The 24th Scientific Forum on Hajj, Umrah, and Visit Research is a tangible demonstration of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to realizing Vision 2030 goals, particularly in enhancing the services provided to millions of pilgrims and visitors annually. Through rigorous scientific inquiry and practical innovation, the Kingdom aims to elevate the pilgrimage experience to new standards of excellence, safety, and sustainability, reinforcing its status as a global leader in religious tourism. This initiative supports the broader ambition of the Saudi government to transform the Hajj and Umrah sectors into a thriving ecosystem that contributes to economic diversification, creates jobs, and showcases Saudi hospitality on the world stage.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the purpose of the 24th Scientific Forum on Hajj, Umrah, and Visit Research?

A1. The forum aims to gather researchers and professionals to present studies focused on improving transportation and crowd management during Hajj, Umrah, and pilgrimage visits, under the theme of excellence in these areas.

Q2. Who is organizing the forum?

A2. The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Institute for Hajj and Umrah Research at Umm Al-Qura University in Makkah is organizing the forum, a leading academic body specializing in pilgrimage research.

Q3. When is the forum scheduled to take place?

A3. The forum is scheduled for Jumada Al-Akhirah 1446 AH, which corresponds to December 2024 in the Gregorian calendar, as announced by the institute.

Q4. What is the theme of this year’s forum?

A4. The theme is “excellence in transportation and crowd management,” focusing on strategic planning, modern technologies, sustainable practices, and health and safety improvements.

Q5. What is the deadline for submitting research abstracts?

A5. Research abstracts must be submitted by Monday, Rabie’ Al-Awal 20, 1446 AH, which is September 23, 2024, as specified by the institute.

Q6. When are full scientific papers due?

A6. Complete scientific papers are due by Monday, Rabie’ Al-Thani 18, 1446 AH, which is October 21, 2024, after the abstract deadline.

Q7. Who can submit research proposals to the forum?

A7. Researchers and professionals from various sectors, including academic, governmental, and private, are invited to submit proposals for scientific papers related to the forum’s theme.

Q8. What are the four areas of focus for the forum?

A8. The forum will explore strategic planning, modern systems and technologies, sustainable practices, and health and safety enhancement in transportation and crowd management.

Q9. Why is transportation and crowd management important for Hajj and Umrah?

A9. Efficient management ensures the safety and comfort of millions of pilgrims, reduces congestion, and improves emergency response, which is critical for large-scale religious events.

Q10. How does the forum support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030?

A10. The forum aligns with Vision 2030 by aiming to enhance pilgrim services through innovation and research, contributing to economic diversification and global leadership in religious tourism.

Q11. What is the role of Umm Al-Qura University in this initiative?

A11. Umm Al-Qura University, through its Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Institute, leads research and scientific exchange to improve Hajj and Umrah management and policy.

Q12. How does the forum benefit researchers?

A12. Researchers gain opportunities to present their work, collaborate with international experts, and contribute to practical solutions for pilgrim management, enhancing their academic profiles.

Q13. What types of research are encouraged?

A13. Original, multidisciplinary research that addresses strategic planning, modern technologies, sustainability, and health safety in transportation and crowd management is encouraged.

Q14. How does the forum impact global collaboration?

A14. The forum fosters international cooperation by bringing together experts from around the world to share knowledge and develop best practices for large-scale event management.

Q15. What is the significance of the theme “excellence in transportation and crowd management”?

A15. It highlights Saudi Arabia’s dedication to continuous improvement and innovation in managing large crowds, ensuring a seamless and safe experience for pilgrims and visitors.

Q16. Will the forum focus on environmental sustainability?

A16. Yes, sustainable practices are one of the four key areas, reflecting the Kingdom’s commitment to environmentally responsible management of Hajj and Umrah operations.

Q17. How does the forum support health and safety improvements?

A17. Research on health and safety enhancement aims to better prepare for medical emergencies, improve sanitation, and safeguard pilgrim well-being during large gatherings.

Q18. What is the deadline to submit abstracts in September?

A18. The final date for abstract submissions is September 23, 2024, after which they will be reviewed for inclusion in the forum’s program.

Q19. How do modern systems and technologies help crowd management?

A19. Technologies like real-time tracking, AI analytics, and smart traffic systems help optimize crowd flow, reduce delays, and enhance overall efficiency during pilgrimages.

Q20. How can interested participants find more information?

A20. Participants can contact the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Institute for Hajj and Umrah Research at Umm Al-Qura University for submission details and guidelines.

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