Emirates MoI: Smooth crossing for pilgrims at al-Ghuwaifat border

More than 13,136 pilgrims from the U.A.E. and the Sultanate of Oman have crossed the Al Ghuwaifat Border on their way to perform the Hajj rituals in the Holy Land. The Ministry of Interior, in cooperation with its partners, has provided pilgrims with a wide range of services to make their travel comfortable. These services included the distribution of medical masks to protect them against the harmful effects of dust, fine particles and pathogens; in addition to umbrellas to shield them against the blazing sun, and document folders to protect their documents against damage or loss.
The Abu Dhabi Police have launched an awareness campaign for pilgrims designed to raise the awareness of pilgrims about safety and prevention requirements. The initiative is implemented by the Security Media Department at the General Secretariat of the Office of H.H Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, in cooperation with concerned police departments and comes as a part of its social campaign under the slogan "Your Safety". It also aims to familiarize pilgrims with the services provided by Abu Dhabi Police through their different teams, to promote awareness-raising efforts, and increase safety levels, especially traffic safety, to ensure a safe and accident free pilgrimage.
Colonel Khamis Musbah Al Marar, Head of Ports and Airports Security Department at Abu Dhabi Police General Headquarters, noted that three tents were set up for pilgrims that are equipped with all amenities. 7,000 medical masks were also distributed to protect pilgrims against the health damages of dust particles. "The safety and health of pilgrims is a top priority for Abu Dhabi Police, which constantly seek to promote efforts in this regard," he noted.
Adding further, Colonel Al Marar stated that Abu Dhabi Police cater to the need of all pilgrims while they are waiting at the Port, in cooperation with the Zayed Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation, the Emirates Red Crescent, the Western Region Municipality, the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments, Al Sila Hospital, and the Family Development Foundation in Al Sila.
Colonel Al Marar noted that the various entities at the port are working as one team through mutual cooperation to guarantee distinguished services to alleviate the pilgrims’ tiresome and long journey. "Medical and ambulance services are also provided that can accommodate up to 10 beds to handle emergency situations and administer first aid to pilgrims. There is also full coordination with Al Sila Hospital to receive any emergency case that requires in-hospital treatment," he added. Colonel Al Marar also noted that mechanical workshops have been provided around the clock to fix any bus malfunction, to allow pilgrims to continue their journey to the Holy Land without delay. School students from Al Sila region distributed water bottles and fruit juices to pilgrims to smooth out their travel.