The Deputy Governor of Makkah Region, Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, will patronize the 24th Scientific Forum for Hajj, Umrah, and Visit Research, organized by Umm Al-Qura University under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. The event is scheduled to take place from December 9 to 11, 2024, at the university’s Al-Abdiyah Campus, focusing on the theme ‘Excellence in Transportation and Crowd Management.’
Context and Background
The forum, hosted by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Institute for Hajj and Umrah Research, builds on over two decades of scholarly and practical advancements in pilgrimage management. It aims to address evolving challenges in handling millions of visitors to Makkah and Madinah, particularly during peak seasons. This year’s edition emphasizes transportation and crowd management as critical pillars for enhancing safety, efficiency, and the overall experience of pilgrims and visitors.
Key Details
The forum will feature a series of workshops and specialized panel discussions. Key topics include strategic planning for managing transportation systems and facilities to ensure effective and safe traffic flow, reducing congestion, and improving operational efficiency. Participants will also explore modern systems and technologies in crowd management, including the planning and execution of movement-related operations designed to enhance safety and user experience. Additionally, sessions will cover health and safety protocols in crowd management, sustainable practices to balance current needs with environmental preservation, and an exhibition showcasing scientific posters from Saudi university scholars on transportation and crowd management research.
International Impact
This forum underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to sharing best practices and innovations in managing large-scale religious gatherings, which have implications for global event management and pilgrimage logistics. By hosting international experts and researchers, the Kingdom reinforces its role as a leader in hospitality, safety, and infrastructure for the world’s largest annual human congregation. The insights generated contribute to improving services for over 10 million Umrah visitors annually and millions of Hajj pilgrims, enhancing the reputation of Saudi Arabia as a destination of choice for spiritual journeys.
Vision 2030 Alignment
The forum aligns closely with Saudi Vision 2030 goals to transform the Hajj and Umrah experience, increasing capacity and quality of services. By focusing on excellence in transportation and crowd management, the event supports the vision of making the Two Holy Mosques accessible to more visitors while ensuring their safety, comfort, and spiritual fulfillment. This initiative reflects the Kingdom’s dedication to leveraging technology and research to achieve operational excellence, sustainable development, and a better quality of life for all, contributing to the broader economic and social ambitions of the nation.
20 Questions
Q1. Who will patronize the 24th Scientific Forum for Hajj, Umrah, and Visit Research?
A1. The Deputy Governor of Makkah Region, Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, will patronize the forum under the auspices of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.
Q2. What is the theme of the 24th edition of this forum?
A2. The theme of the 24th Scientific Forum for Hajj, Umrah, and Visit Research is ‘Excellence in Transportation and Crowd Management.’
Q3. When will the 24th Scientific Forum take place?
A3. The forum will take place from December 9 to 11, 2024, at Umm Al-Qura University’s Al-Abdiyah Campus.
Q4. Which organization is hosting the forum?
A4. The forum is hosted by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Institute for Hajj and Umrah Research, which is part of Umm Al-Qura University.
Q5. What is the goal of this forum?
A5. The goal is to enhance scientific research and practical solutions for Hajj, Umrah, and visit management, with a focus on improving transportation and crowd management.
Q6. What key topics will be covered during the forum?
A6. Topics include strategic planning for traffic flow, modern technologies in crowd management, health and safety protocols, and sustainable practices in transportation and crowd management.
Q7. How will the forum address crowd management challenges?
A7. It will include workshops and panel discussions on improving efficiency, reducing congestion, enhancing safety, and implementing modern technologies for effective crowd control.
Q8. Will there be any exhibitions at the forum?
A8. Yes, the forum will feature an exhibition and scientific posters showcasing research by Saudi university scholars in transportation and crowd management.
Q9. How does this forum benefit pilgrims and visitors?
A9. It aims to improve safety, reduce congestion, and enhance the overall experience for pilgrims and visitors to Makkah and Madinah through better planning and technology.
Q10. What is the role of Umm Al-Qura University in this event?
A10. Umm Al-Qura University organizes the forum through its Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Institute for Hajj and Umrah Research, providing academic expertise and logistical support.
Q11. How does the forum relate to Saudi Vision 2030?
A11. It supports Vision 2030 by aiming to improve the quality of Hajj and Umrah services, increase capacity, and ensure visitor safety and comfort, aligning with national development goals.
Q12. What is the significance of Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz’s patronage?
A12. His patronage highlights the Kingdom’s leadership and commitment to advancing research and services for pilgrims, reflecting the support of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques.
A13. The forum will bring together experts, researchers, and officials to discuss and present solutions for managing large crowds and transportation systems during religious events.
Q14. What sustainable practices will be emphasized at the forum?
A14. The forum will highlight balancing current transportation and crowd management needs while preserving resources and the environment for future generations.
Q15. How does the forum contribute to health and safety in crowd management?
A15. It will cover precise planning and execution to safeguard individuals from health, physical, and security risks during large gatherings.
Q16. What modern systems and technologies will be discussed?
A16. Topics will include advanced technologies in transportation and crowd management to enhance operational efficiency and user experience.
Q17. How many editions of this forum have been held so far?
A17. This is the 24th edition, indicating a long-standing tradition of scientific research and innovation in Hajj and Umrah management.
Q18. What is the location of the forum?
A18. The forum will be held at Umm Al-Qura University’s Al-Abdiyah Campus in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
Q19. Why is the forum important for international visitors?
A19. It addresses challenges of managing millions of visitors, offering insights applicable to global event management and enhancing the experience of international pilgrims.
Q20. How does the forum reflect Saudi Arabia’s global role?
A20. By hosting this forum, Saudi Arabia demonstrates leadership in pilgrimage logistics and research, reinforcing its commitment to serving millions of visitors and sharing best practices worldwide.
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