The Authority of People with Disability (APD) and the Pilgrim Experience Program collaborated to conduct a focus group on the pilgrimage experience of individuals with disabilities. The focus group was attended by representatives from all sectors involved in Hajj and Umrah, as well as individuals with different types of disabilities from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The group deliberated on all aspects of the pilgrimage and visitor experience. Beginning with the issuance of permits, booking, travel, arrival in Makkah and Medina, and transportation. In order to improve and accommodate the services offered to individuals with disabilities in the two holy mosques, the holy sites, as well as related facilities, archaeological and Islamic museums, and other supporting services, the focus group examined the challenges and potential solutions.
In addition, the group reviewed the current efforts of the Pilgrim Experience Program for persons with disabilities and discussed all the challenges encountered by individuals with disabilities during the Hajj season last year, as well as the proposed solutions.
It
is important to note that the Authority of People with Disability is
committed to enhancing the services provided to individuals with
disabilities by different sectors and addressing the obstacles they
encounter in collaboration with the appropriate sectors in order to
achieve a harmonious and inclusive society.