Saudi Arabia Roundup: Hajj, worker remittances, heat waves, G7 summit

Sale of illegal Hajj Packages

An Indonesian influencer was detained in Saudi Arabia for selling illegal Hajj packages using visit visas to Mecca. According to Jakarta Globe, Saudi authorities are also investigating other social media accounts involved in the same. The Indonesian Consul General in Jeddah is focused on helping the victims who had already paid for the illegal Hajj visas.

Heat waves during Hajj

Hajj pilgrims in Makkah have been advised to take precautions against extreme heat, as temperatures during the pilgrimage can reach up to 48 degrees Celsius. The elderly and those with underlying medical conditions are particularly vulnerable. Arabnews reports that pilgrims have been cautioned about the need to stay hydrated, cool, and vaccinated to protect against heat-related illnesses and strengthen the immune system. The Saudi government and Hajj authorities have implemented measures to accommodate the needs of pilgrims, including expanding medical facilities and shortening Friday sermons and prayers to alleviate the difficulties of worshippers during the Hajj season.

G7 Summit

Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman is among at least 13 heads of state invited to the G7 summit by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. This reflects Italy's desire to broaden the horizons of the G7. The guest list also includes leaders from India, South Africa, Brazil, and other countries. The summit will focus on issues such as the situation in the Middle East, Ukraine's conflict with Russia, and the risks and opportunities posed by Artificial Intelligence. Italy hopes to bolster consensus on critical issues and draw attention to the problems of the Global South, especially Africa. According to the Middle East Monitor, the summit will also provide opportunities for bilateral meetings between leaders.

Worker remittances

Pakistan received a record $3.2 billion in worker remittances in May, with Saudi Arabia being the top contributor. Remittances play a vital role in supporting the country's economy and stabilising its currency. Arabnews reports that the increase in remittances is attributed to stability in the Pakistani currency and expectations of a new IMF program.

Saudi Girl Scout volunteers

Saudi Arabian Boy Scouts Association has enlisted 220 members from the Saudi Girl Scout Committee to assist pilgrims during the Hajj season in Makkah, Madinah, and the holy sites. The organisation is committed to increasing the participation of girl scouts and empowering young girls through volunteer work. Princess Sama bint Faisal bin Abdullah, chairwoman of the Saudi Girl Scout Committee, has been instrumental in ensuring the presence of girl scouts in diverse volunteer activities. The initiative reflects the commitment to empower and support Saudi girls and enable them to contribute meaningfully to society, Saudi Gazette reports.