the Two Holy Mosques: When Faith Embraces You and Memory Greets You
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A year has passed… and yet the impact still
The clock’s hands turn, the days pass, and we are brought back to those unforgettable moments—days in which the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, both leadership and people, surrounded us with generous care and fatherly embrace during the Hajj season, honored guests of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques. It was there that we truly experienced the meaning of giving, noble love, and a hospitality that has no equal.
His Excellency Dr. Abdullatif Al Al-Sheikh… A Meeting of Sincerity and a Manifestation of the Mission
Today, in these blessed days, comes the invitation of the Ambassador of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to honor a new group of the Guests of the Merciful, in a farewell ceremony befitting the stature of the message and the sacred place. Memories rush back all at once, tears flow as if the event is being relived before us—its depth, sanctity, and indescribable spiritual charge.
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His Excellency Dr. Abdulaziz bin Ali Al-Saqr
Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
I still remember the moment I shook hands with Dr. Abdulaziz bin Ali Al-Saqr, the Kingdom’s Ambassador—an unforgettable encounter filled with generosity, grace, and sincere affection. We departed at night and arrived at dawn… and what a dawn it was! A reception full of warmth and welcome, of heartfelt hospitality. A day unlike any other—crowds of administrators, reception staff, security, and precise organization. Transport buses for the guests, a whole new world of care and generosity worthy of a people of ambition and wise leadership. The Ministry of Islamic Affairs was present everywhere, with individuals whose presence brought joy to our hearts.
From the Ambassador’s office, we heard the phrase that became a blessing: “The most blessed hour,” and so the blessing settled upon us—spirit and body. I remember the details of that dawn, that sacred land, and that first call to prayer in the Holy City… a call to prayer unlike any other, and a place unlike any other.
His Excellency Dr. Abdullatif bin Abdulaziz Al Al-Sheikh
Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance
And in Mina, we lived a unique spiritual and human experience when His Excellency Minister Dr. Abdullatif Al Al-Sheikh visited us—a humble man embodying the values and mission of Islamic affairs and the Hajj journey. We saw him walking through the rooms and facilities, embracing pilgrims, kissing this one and joking with that one, asking after their needs… We truly thought he was one of the people, not a minister.
From ambassador to minister, from one human being to another, the Kingdom presented its finest image… a leadership that loves, a people that welcomes, and a land proud to be home to the Two Holy Mosques, the Qiblah, and the bearer of the sacred banner.
Much has changed within us after that journey. Meanings once hidden were revealed, and a deep yearning was stirred again… Who will take us back there? Who will heal this longing?
All gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz, and to his trustworthy Crown Prince, His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman—may God protect them—for this generous initiative that renews itself year after year. Gratitude also goes to the Minister, the Ambassador, and everyone who stood, contributed, and extended a hand in service to the Guests of the Merciful.
Thank you to the people, the trees, and even the stones…
Thank you to the fragrance of history, the secret of faith, and the sweetness of reunion.
Bassam Ouda
Jordanian Journalist
Editor-in-Chief
