Sofa-cum-Beds, Pak Hajj App & AC: Pakistan Ensures World-Class Stay for Pilgrims in Mina
MAKKAH MUKARRAMA: Preparations in Mina, the world’s largest temporary tent city, have entered their final phase for Hajj 2026. Makkah Coordinator Zulfiqar Khan briefed media representatives during a tour of model camps, confirming that lodging, catering, and all essential facilities have been arranged according to international standards. Key Upgrades for Pilgrim Comfort Zulfiqar Khan highlighted several innovative improvements introduced for the first time. These include comfortable ‘sofa-cum-beds’ to enhance the living experience. Every tent will display clear lists showing bed counts, numbering, and names of assigned pilgrims to eliminate confusion. All relevant data has been integrated with the ‘Pak Hajj App,’ enabling pilgrims to easily locate their specific camp and bed using their mobile phones. Special attention has also been paid to combating intense heat with high-efficiency air conditioners installed for every block of 32 beds. These units are checked daily for optimal performance. Healthcare and Operational Readiness Dedicated dispensaries and medical clinics have been set up within the camps, staffed round-the-clock by a doctor and two paramedics. These facilities are equipped with oxygen cylinders and essential first-aid medicines to handle any emergencies promptly. Additional features include hangers and optimized storage space for luggage, ensuring a spacious and organized environment inside the tents. Zulfiqar Khan credited the close cooperation between the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and Pakistani authorities for completing these arrangements well in advance. He assured that the entire Ministry of Religious Affairs team is on the ground and fully prepared to serve. Pilgrims have been advised to focus solely on their worship, as the government has taken complete responsibility for their stay, health, and comfort. Deputy Coordinator Operations Makkah, Sadaqat Ali Awan, reaffirmed that Pak Hajj Mission staff will remain available 24/7 to resolve any issues instantly. Serving Pakistani pilgrims is being treated as a religious duty with zero tolerance for negligence.