Madinah’s Haj Ministry branch has launched an e-communication service on several social networking sites, such as Twitter and Facebook, for the very first time.

The ministry’s branch has also provided a mobile number and a landline for addressing inquiries and complaints around the clock.

Muhammad Al-Beijawi, branch head, said the move comes as part of efforts to improve Haj and Umrah services in line with directives issued by Haj Minister Bandar Hajjar.

Hajjar had ordered the outsourcing of services to a consultancy commission that meets European standards of excellence to ensure quality services among pilgrims and visitors.

“Our branch in Madinah has embarked on several projects to improve services, not least of which include enhancing communication with visitors,” said Al-Beijawi.

“Comments and complaints can be made virtually anywhere, including at points of departure and arrival. Inspection teams continuously embark on ad hoc visits to hotels and apartments to ensure quality customer service.”

There is an increase in the number of pilgrims thanks to ongoing expansion projects at the Grand Mosque and airports and the implementation of the Haramain Expressway and other projects, he said.

Over 5 million Umrah visas have been issued since the beginning of the year, while 4.5 million people entered the country and 4.2 million left. There are an estimated 322,000 overstayers in the Kingdom.

Haj Ministry’s Twitter account: Hajmadina@

Facebook account: Hajmadina

E-mail: [email protected]