LAMIA Al HARMOUDI (SHARJAH)

The Sharjah Charity International (SCI) has enabled 160 low-income individuals to perform the sacred pilgrimage of Hajj, as part of the Hajj Facilitation Campaign. The SCI initiative is part of ongoing national campaigns aimed at supporting those less fortunate, outside of or within the UAE, made possible through the generosity of donors.

Mohammed Sulaim Al Munai, the Director of the Aid Department at SCI, said that the Hajj Facilitation Campaign falls under the broader “Eid Al Adha Campaign” umbrella, adding that the SCI had recently finalised all necessary arrangements for the Aid Committee approved applicants.

“Today, with feelings of joy, we bid farewell to 70 citizens, alongside 90 individuals nominated by the association’s international offices in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and respective embassies before their departure to the holy lands,” he noted.

Al Munai pointed out that the cost for each pilgrim within the UAE is estimated at Dh20,000, while those from abroad cost Dh10,000 each, including round-trip tickets, accommodation, and transportation during Hajj to ensuring a smooth pilgrimage experience for the participants. He thanked the donors for their pivotal role in this campaign, which has had a lasting positive effect on the beneficiaries.

Al Munai emphasised the importance of organising the Hajj trip for low-income individuals and its impact on the beneficiaries. He underscored the importance of the Hajj as a fundamental pillar of Islam and lauded the role of benefactors in turning the pilgrims’ dreams into reality.

“The campaign’s philosophy stems from the desire to open doors of goodness and noble deeds by assisting Muslims worldwide in fulfilling their sacred duty, especially those hindered by financial constraints,” Al Munai said.

The pilgrims shared their immense joy and deep gratitude to the SCI, the benefactors, and all who have supported this endeavour for making their dreams of performing Hajj a reality, through the Hajj Facilitation Campaign, the efforts of charitable organisations and the spirit of giving to provide for the needy.