Former Al-Ettifaq player, Swedish Robin Quaison, expressed his great joy in performing the Hajj pilgrimage this year, as part of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Program for Hajj, Umrah, and Visit, supervised by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah, and Guidance. He affirmed that standing on the plain of Arafat, spending the night in Muzdalifah, and heading to Mina represent the greatest moments he has experienced since embracing Islam a year ago.
He explained that his experience in Saudi Arabia during his athletic career was the gateway through which he learned about Islam and its tolerant values, noting that the ethics of Saudi society and Muslims’ attachment to their religion had a profound impact on his journey towards embracing Islam.
He described the scene of millions of pilgrims from various nationalities and languages gathering on one plain to perform the rituals as a living embodiment of the greatness of Islam and the unity of Muslims, emphasizing that the Day of Arafah was an exceptional spiritual experience that words cannot describe.
He stated that standing at Arafat gave him a tranquility and reassurance he had long sought, stressing that the Kingdom was not just a professional station for him, but a deep human and spiritual experience.
He praised the comprehensive renaissance the Kingdom is witnessing in various fields, appreciating the tremendous efforts made by the wise leadership in serving the guests of the Most Merciful and facilitating their performance of the rituals.
In conclusion, he expressed gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and to His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, for their exceptional care for the pilgrims, praising the distinguished role of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah, and Guidance in implementing the program and caring for its guests from their arrival in the Kingdom until the completion of their rituals.
Arafat
Arafat is a sacred plain located about 20 kilometers east of Mecca, Saudi Arabia, and is a crucial site for the Islamic pilgrimage of Hajj. Its history dates back to the time of the Prophet Muhammad, who delivered his final sermon there in 632 CE, and it is where pilgrims must stand in prayer and reflection on the 9th day of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah. This act, known as the “Standing at Arafat,” is considered the most essential ritual of the Hajj, symbolizing the Day of Judgment and seeking God’s mercy.
Muzdalifah
Muzdalifah is a significant open plain located between Mina and Arafat in Saudi Arabia, playing a vital role in the annual Hajj pilgrimage. Historically, it is the site where pilgrims gather after sunset on the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah to perform prayers and collect pebbles for the symbolic stoning of the devil in Mina. This practice commemorates the actions of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and is an essential ritual in the pilgrimage.
Mina
Mina is a tent city located near Mecca, Saudi Arabia, best known for its role in the annual Hajj pilgrimage. Historically, it is the site where the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) was tested by God to sacrifice his son, and where pilgrims perform the symbolic stoning of the devil ritual. Today, it houses thousands of air-conditioned tents to accommodate millions of pilgrims during the Hajj.
Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Program for Hajj, Umrah, and Visit
The Cust
Arafat
Arafat is a plain located about 20 kilometers east of Mecca in Saudi Arabia, holding immense religious significance in Islam. It is the site where the Prophet Muhammad delivered his final sermon during his farewell pilgrimage, and it serves as the central location for the Hajj pilgrimage, where pilgrims gather on the 9th of Dhu al-Hijjah for the Day of Arafat, a day of prayer and reflection. Historically, it is also believed to be where Adam and Eve were reunited after their expulsion from paradise, and where the Prophet Abraham performed rituals near the Mount of Mercy.
Muzdalifah
Muzdalifah is a significant open plain located between Mina and Mount Arafat in Saudi Arabia, playing a key role in the annual Hajj pilgrimage. Historically, it is where pilgrims stay overnight after sunset on the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah, collecting pebbles for the symbolic stoning of the devil in Mina, following the tradition of the Prophet Muhammad. This area also holds deep religious meaning as a site for prayer and reflection, commemorating events from the time of the Prophet Ibrahim.
Mina
Mina is a valley located near Mecca in Saudi Arabia, best known for its role in the annual Hajj pilgrimage. Historically, it is the site where the Prophet Abraham is believed to have prepared to sacrifice his son, and today pilgrims camp here in tens of thousands of tents. The area also features the Jamarat Bridge, where the ritual of stoning the devil takes place.
Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Program for Hajj, Umrah, and Visit
The “Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Program for Hajj, Umrah, and Visit” is a Saudi government initiative that provides exceptional hospitality and services to pilgrims visiting Mecca and Medina. Established under the patronage of the Saudi king, the program aims to enhance the spiritual experience of guests of God by offering high-quality accommodation, transportation, and cultural activities. It reflects the kingdom’s long-standing role as the guardian of Islam’s holiest sites and its commitment to facilitating the annual pilgrimage and year-round visits.
Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah, and Guidance
The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah, and Guidance is a government body in Saudi Arabia responsible for overseeing religious affairs, including the management of mosques, Islamic education, and the promotion of dawah (Islamic outreach). Established in 1993, it aims to guide religious discourse, combat extremism, and spread a moderate interpretation of Islam. The ministry also supervises the printing and distribution of the Quran and coordinates with Islamic organizations worldwide.
