Chaïb préside le lancement officiel de l’adhésion du MAE au système numérique du Hadj et de la Omra
Summary of the Launch of the Digital System for Hajj and Umrah in Algeria
On Tuesday, Sofiane Chaïb, the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs in charge of the National Community Abroad, officiated the official launch of the ministry’s participation in the digital system for Hajj and Umrah in Algiers. This initiative follows President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s strategy for digital transformation and reinforces the collaboration between the Foreign Affairs and Religious Affairs sectors.
During a training session for members of the consular delegation overseeing the Hajj within the national mission, which included representatives from the consular offices in Mecca and Medina and Djeddah’s international airport, Chaïb emphasized that this digital transition aims to streamline various responsibilities, such as drafting protocols, issuing permits, and managing death registries. It also intends to ease the issuance of relevant documents.
The initiative is expected to modernize a significant part of consular management and will eventually expand digital accessibility for Umrah applicants year-round through accredited tourism agencies by the National Office of Pilgrimage and Umrah (ONPO).
Chaïb reiterated the vital importance of organizing the Hajj for Algeria’s authorities, highlighting its sacredness and significance to the citizens. This commitment is reflected in several initiatives by the President, including the state’s coverage of increased Hajj costs for this year, maintaining previous season rates, raising the allowance for pilgrims to $1,000, and providing additional quotas for individuals aged 70 and above registered for the lottery.
He affirmed that his department is dedicated to mobilizing all necessary resources to ensure the success of this year’s Hajj season. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, represented by the Algerian embassy in Riyadh, the consulate general in Djeddah, and the consular delegation, is committed to supporting the pilgrims and enhancing consular services to create optimal conditions for fulfilling Hajj rites according to the expectations of the faithful.
Taher Braik, the General Director of ONPO, voiced his appreciation for the collaboration among different sectors and the consular delegation to ensure a successful Hajj season. Additionally, the Algerian Consul General in Djeddah, Mohamed Alem, via video conference, assured that the consulate’s services are fully prepared to handle their responsibilities in coordination with the national Hajj mission.
This initiative marks a significant step in enhancing the management and experience of Hajj and Umrah for Algerian pilgrims, aligning with the nation’s broader digital transformation goals while ensuring the preservation of religious practices and the welfare of its citizens abroad.
