The Department of Foreign affairs and trade has released the latest information needed by travellers before heading to Saudia Arabia during the month of August to perform Hajj (The annual pilgrimage of Muslims to Mecca).
More than three million pilgrims from around the world are expected to perform Hajj this year.
Shahzad Malik from Tauheed Travels told SBS Urdu every year the precautions are generally the same but this year a few other things need to be taken into consideration.
“Minister of Health released information about respiratory syndrome coronavirus which is spread from camel meat and milk,” said Mr Malik.
“In more than 50 per cent of the cases, diagnosed people did not survive. I would highly suggest staying away from camel and raw meat or milk.
“The second biggest issue is dehydration. I would suggest taking hydrolyte in powder form with you and drinking it as much as you can.
“Thirdly, do not tire yourself by performing multiple Umrah’s before Hajj and do not tire yourself.” Mr Malik further added.
The smart traveller website states that overcrowding at religious sites is to be expected and one should always be alert to possible safety risks.
Crowd crush disasters are common, often occurring at bottlenecks. In 2015, more than 700 pilgrims were killed in a stampede at the Hajj.
It is further advised to safeguard your valuables and to follow restrictions where taking of photographs or video is not allowed.
Passport, Visa and Consular Services:
Saudi Arabia does not recognise dual nationality. If a person is travelling on a passport other than Australia, they will not be able to access consular services from the local Australian embassy.
Mr Malik states that once you arrive in the country your passports will be taken away from you until you get to the airport on the way back.
“If one needs to access consular services the best way is to ask your group leader to facilitate you without your passport.” Said Mr Malik
“Generally speaking, if you're not travelling on your Australian passport you will not be considered as a citizen of Australia.” he further added.
Visas for Saudi Arabia in most cases are now electronic. Mr Malik advises travellers to keep a printed copy with them at all times.
Department of Foreign Affairs states that if you lose your passport or you believe it has been stolen, immediately report it to your Hajj operator and notify the Australian Embassy in Riyadh by calling +966 (0) 11 250 0900 or the Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305.
Currency Exchange:
Australian currency is accepted in Saudi Arabia but Mr Malik suggests having some local currency for urgent needs.
“I would advise not to get currency exchanged at the airport, rather do it at a local exchange in Medina or Makkah as you will get a better rate.” said Mr Malik
Feeling sick or facing an emergency?
There are a huge number of mobile clinics setup throughout the course of the Hajj. They are easily identifiable and can provide first point of relief if you’re feeling sick or facing an emergency.
“Generally they would assess you and if they feel they will call an ambulance and shift you to a hospital to be further treated.” said Mr Malik.
Department of Foreign Affairs suggests that the first point of contact should be your family, friends, airline, travel agent, tour operator, employer or travel insurer if the emergency is non-life threatening.
In case of urgent help and life threatening emergencies following are the contact details for local government authorities.
- Ambulance: 997
- Police: 999
- Traffic accidents: 993
- Unified number for Emergency Services: 911
In case of any other emergencies related to the Australian Embassy you can contact the , contact the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or 1300 555 135 within Australia.
People from all over the world are travelling to perform Hajj. Mr Malik suggests it is very easy that one can contract a virus or infection from others.
“It is critical that you are immunised before travelling and have all the necessary medications for your specific conditions.
“Wash your hands regularly. If you are diabetic give yourself more time, as soon as you feel the need to use the toilet get in line.” said Mr Malik.
Accommodation:
All Hajj tour operators must provide accommodation in Mina, in air-conditioned tents with mattresses and three meals a day, fruit, vegetables and drinks. Water and ice are provided at all times. No cooking is allowed in the Mina Tent City Area.
All other accommodation should be arranged through your travel agent or privately.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is the government agency that distributes pilgrims to their assigned sections designated by country.
More detailed information can be found of the smart traveller website.
