GACA secures 3 million flight seats for pilgrims during Hajj arrival and departure phases deploying tens of thousands of transport vehicles and ramping up operations across air the Ministry of Transport and Logistics said over 25,000 buses and 9,000 taxis have been readied to serve pilgrims as part of an integrated national plan to support the smooth movement of millions of Hajj participants The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) said it has secured more than 3 million seats for pilgrims on both scheduled and chartered flights during arrival and departure phases Oversight teams have been tasked with intensifying performance monitoring of airports and service providers to ensure seamless travel has deployed over 18,000 employees across 11 pilgrim-dedicated travel lounges including specialised initiatives such as “Traveller Without Baggage,” which allows for pre-shipping of luggage and Zamzam water from pilgrims’ residences Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) will operate over 2,000 Al Mashair Metro trips expected to transport more than 2 million passengers across Mina the Roads General Authority completed maintenance on 7,400 kilometers of roads and deployed 300 road monitors alongside 20 advanced monitoring systems to ensure structural integrity and smooth traffic flow Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) has positioned 436 personnel at Jeddah Islamic Port to receive approximately 5,000 pilgrims supporting entry logistics and customs procedures Saudi Post (SPL) has also designated a two-month operational window and 57 sales outlets to support last-mile delivery services for pilgrims SPL will provide refrigerated vehicles to transport medical materials and biological samples reflecting the growing integration of health logistics in Hajj planning the National Transport Safety Center (NTSC) will coordinate emergency response efforts managing resources around the clock across all modes of transport Get the latest news and updates straight to your inbox Saudi Arabia welcomes first group of Indian pilgrims Saudi Arabia suspends Umrah permits ahead of Hajj Over 18 million pilgrims visited Saudi Arabia in 2024 kingdom has tightened access to Mecca and Medina for the Hajj season Dubai: A Ghanaian resident has been arrested by Hajj security forces for attempting to transport four expatriate women to Mecca in violation of Hajj regulations tried to smuggle the women into the holy city by concealing them in the luggage compartment The security forces detained the driver and the passengers referring them to the competent committee for legal proceedings Since April 29, Saudi Arabia has tightened access to Mecca and Medina for the Hajj season with a ban on individuals attempting to perform Hajj without a special permit The restriction will remain in place until June 10 Entry to the holy sites will only be allowed with a dedicated Hajj visa Violators attempting to perform Hajj without a permit or those with visit visas seeking to enter or remain in the holy cities during the restricted period individuals applying for visit visas for others attempting Hajj without authorization or who remain in Mecca during the restricted period whether residents or those with expired visas will also face deportation and a ten-year ban from re-entering the Kingdom 42 expats held in Mecca for violating Hajj regulations Saudi Arabia rolls out AI-powered plan for Hajj Video: Hajj Pilgrims arrive from Europe on horseback resident Prabowo Subianto says Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman (MBS) has responded well to a proposal extended during their recent meeting to establish a special "village" in Mecca to accommodate pilgrims from Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim-majority country. "The last time I met him, I floated the idea of building an Indonesian village in the Holy Land, the closest to Masjid al-Haram, and his reaction was quite positive," the President said on Sunday, as quoted by Antara. Prabowo said Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar was currently working on details of the plan and would soon travel to Saudi Arabia to finalize the deal. On Sunday, Prabowo inaugurated a brand-new terminal dedicated to serving haj and umrah (minor haj) pilgrims at Terminal 2F of Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Tangerang, Banten. The government plans to send a total of 221,000 haj pilgrims to Saudi Arabia during the haj season this year. In this year’s first wave of haj departures last week, more than 7,000 Indonesians took off to Saudi Arabia, marking the official start of the annual pilgrimage for millions of Muslims worldwide. © 2016 - 2025 PT. Bina Media Tenggara Thank you for sharing your thoughts. We appreciate your feedback. 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Customize your reading experience by adjusting the text size to small, medium, or large—find what’s most comfortable for you. the authorized distributor of Toyota vehicles in Saudi Arabia since 1955 along with Toyota Motor Corporation and a number of supporting entities have participated in the second hydrogen fuel cell bus trial across Makkah The initiative was launched by the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites in collaboration with the Ministry of Energy and several relevant entities marking another exciting chapter for green mobility in Saudi Arabia Abdul Latif Jameel Motors played a pivotal role in supporting the trial by providing the Caetano H2.City Gold bus in Makkah and conducting specialized training for the fire department on the safe operation and handling of hydrogen technology ensuring the project’s success and the safety of the involved teams The Caetano H2.City Gold is powered by Toyota’s own emissions-free hydrogen fuel cell stack and was produced by CaetanoBus SA a part of the Portugal-based Salvador Caetano Group which is a long-standing partner of Toyota With 400 km of autonomy under the weather conditions of the region which makes it more practical for commercial buses with high operating rates Caetano H2.City Gold represents another milestone in the pursuit of environmentally friendly public transport solutions by reducing the environmental footprint of city buses This initiative stems from Toyota’s multi-pathway approach to achieving carbon neutrality It aims to provide diverse sustainable mobility options that suit the needs of its many global markets including fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) like the Toyota Mirai plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and battery electric vehicles (BEVs) Managing Director of Toyota Marketing Operations said: “Supporting this landmark trial in Makkah a city of immense significance for millions of Muslims worldwide This initiative reflects our commitment to promoting fuel cell technology and establishing Saudi Arabia as a key contributor to sustainable mobility By providing environmentally friendly vehicles we continue to align with Saudi Vision 2030 and Toyota’s Multi-Pathway approach to achieving carbon neutrality.” The press release is provided for informational purposes only legal or investment advice or opinion regarding the suitability value or profitability of any particular security Neither this website nor our affiliates shall be liable for any errors or inaccuracies in the content or for any actions taken by you in reliance thereon You expressly agree that your use of the information within this article is at your sole risk To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law its affiliates and the respective shareholders content providers and licensors will not be liable (jointly or severally) to you for any direct even if the parties have been advised of the possibility or could have foreseen any such damages Get insights and exclusive content from the world of business and finance that you can trust Aviation Business Middle East Home » Airlines » Saudia expands into full-service Hajj operations Saudia Group has unveiled its comprehensive plan for the 2025 Hajj season officially entering the Hajj services sector for the first time The airline aims to serve over one million pilgrims across a 74-day period leveraging its fleet of 158 aircraft to capture 35% of the Hajj air travel market The Group said it is adopting a B2C model in line with directives from the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah offering curated service packages that include hotel accommodations overlooking the Two Holy Mosques This initiative marks a major shift for the Group extending beyond air travel to deliver an integrated Over SAR 100 million is being invested in Makkah and the holy sites to ensure a seamless and comfortable experience Saudia will initially serve 1,400 international pilgrims from the United States Premium offerings will feature enhanced privacy and comfort at the holy sites with Business Class-style beds and Alfursan-inspired rest areas Saudia said 29% of its procurement and investment is directed toward domestic suppliers the Saudia Academy is training national talent in key areas such as crowd management and service delivery H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar said:“Hajj remains one of our top national priorities we’re proud not only to operate at full air capacity but to also become a direct service provider we aim to deliver a holistic experience that meets the highest standards of care and hospitality.” More than 11,000 Saudia employees are now engaged in Hajj operations across airports with the “Makkah Route” initiative expected to serve over 120,000 pilgrims the “Luggage First” service will manage around 270,000 bags and 240,000 Zamzam bottles Saudia recently welcomed its first Hajj flight of the season—SV3803 from Dhaka—at King Abdulaziz International Airport attended by government and aviation leaders including Minister of Transport and Logistics H.E Additional support includes multilingual staff and a special inflight programme providing guidance on rituals and local regulations LET’S READ SUARA SARAWAK/ NEW SARAWAK TRIBUNE E-PAPER FOR FREE AS ​​EARLY AS 2 AM EVERY DAY. CLICK LINK MAKKAH: The strong strategic partnership between Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH) with Saudi-based company Mashariq Holdings (Mashariq) has once again proven to be an essential pillar in ensuring the smooth execution of this season’s Haj operations for Malaysian pilgrims This is a continuation of a three-decade cooperation between TH and Mashariq which is tasked with providing essential facilities and services for Malaysian pilgrims here Muzdalifah and Mina during the culmination of the haj pilgrimage said that mutual respect and shared responsibility between both parties were key to deliver the highest standard of care and support to the pilgrims “There was a timeline set by the Saudi Ministry of Haj and we worked closely with Mashariq to ensure everything was implemented according to schedule particularly in securing the sites in Arafah and Mina as a result of our success being rewarded the Labaytum Award (for excellence in haj pilgrim service) last year we were allowed to select the site for Malaysian pilgrims we managed to secure the location that has been used over the past few years,” he told reporters after attending the official event symbolising the joint partnership between TH and Mashariq attended by Mashariq chairman Ali Hussein Al Bundugi its deputy chairman Mahmoud Damanhouri and chief executive officer Waleed Mohammed Rashidi,  was aimed at setting the tone for the upcoming haj season Hisham also called on all personnel involved to remain vigilant anticipate challenges and continue meticulous planning to ensure the comfort safety and welfare of pilgrims throughout their spiritual journey Your professionalism and hospitality have not gone unnoticed and we look forward to further strengthening this vital partnership I hope that both parties will continue to nurture and prioritise our good relationships Let us make this year’s haj operation not just successful but memorable for all the right reasons,” he said.– BERNAMA Sarawak Tribune is a Sarawakian news portal that highlights Sarawak-centric news and other stories of relevance to Sarawak.Today Sarawak Tribune focuses on happenings in Sarawak’s cities towns and small places no matter how remote these are and events of relevance in other states of Malaysia and other countries Saudi Gazette report RIYADH — The Ministry of Transport and Logistics and its affiliated entities announced their complete readiness for the Hajj season of 2025 The ministry’s comprehensive preparation involves effective coordination and integration across air and rail transport sectors to ensure high-quality services befitting the Kingdom’s role in serving the Two Holy Mosques This is in accordance with the directives of the Saudi leadership to mobilize all resources to serve the Hajj pilgrims.The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) affirmed its readiness to receive pilgrims stating that it has allocated more than 3 million seats on chartered and scheduled flights for domestic and international pilgrims during arrival and departure phases Oversight teams have intensified monitoring of performance and quality standards for airports ensuring quality services for pilgrims.Matarat Holding Company announced the completion of its preparations across 11 dedicated pilgrim travel lounges High-quality services enriching the pilgrim travel experience and facilitating journeys through Saudi airports are in place including the "Traveler without baggage" initiative for simplified luggage and Zamzam water pre-shipment from residences.Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia) confirmed its full readiness with over 1 million seats and 2,000 flights via its 158-aircraft fleet to serve pilgrims worldwide Flynas is prepared to transport over 120,000 pilgrims on 294 flights from 15 global destinations adhering to the highest comfort and smooth arrival standards.In land transport the Transport General Authority (TGA) prepared over 25,000 buses and 9,000 taxis supported by 180 operational control supervisors at 20 locations at the entrances of Makkah ensuring company compliance with safety and quality standards.The Roads General Authority completed maintenance on over 7,400 km of roads leading to the holy sites and inspected/maintained 247 bridges for maximum safety Over 300 road monitors and 20 advanced technologies are deployed for monitoring and surveillance.In rail transport the Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) prepared over 2,000 trips for Al-Mashair Metro to transport over 2 million passengers between Mina operating with 35 electric trains at 300 km/h will transport passengers between Makkah and Madinah via three stations including the King Abdulaziz International Airport station one of the largest airport-linked train stations in the world.In maritime transport the Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) deployed 436 employees at Jeddah Islamic Port to receive approximately 5,000 pilgrims organizing reception procedures and logistical services.Saudi Post (SPL) allocated a two-month working period from 15 Dhu al-Qadah to 15 Muharram with mobilized resources including 5 SPL GO vehicles and 62 cars for delivery and parcel transport services in addition to 16 motorcycles and 44 scooters Some 57 sales outlets were equipped to meet the needs of pilgrims around the clock and 35 refrigerated vehicles for the efficient transport of biological samples and medical materials with its commitment to enhancing the Kingdom's Vision 2030 in improving the experience of pilgrims.The National Transport Safety Center (NTSC) announced its readiness implementing a phased operational plan involving human and technical resources to respond to major accidents across all transport modes around the clock from Jeddah extending to the holy sites during the peak Hajj period.These comprehensive efforts align with the Kingdom's continuous commitment to enhancing the pilgrim experience and achieving the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 in providing exceptional services to the pilgrims from arrival to departure The requested content cannot be loaded.Please try again later As the Class of 2025 prepares to say goodbye to Howard their memories are etched not just in yearbooks or transcripts each pin on this map of Howard’s campus holds a story and encompasses a collection of memories tucked into buildings bleachers and late-night Insomnia Cookies runs.  Halloween to Remember – Sifa Butcher Sifa Butcher is a graduating senior on one of the few all-Black Women tennis teams in the country She embraces the responsibility of representation with pride We’re representing Black female tennis players in the country,” she said “It means holding yourself up to a standard Just representing the school and ourselves the best way possible.” Each year the women’s tennis team hosts a Halloween event where they ditch the uniforms for costumes and coach local children “I think it is so cute to see the little kids so excited to play They just have pure joy when they step on the court It just reminds all of us of when we were just starting out as well and  picking up a racket You just hope that whatever you say to them resonates even though they’re so young,” Butcher said To younger athletes learning to juggle both sports and academics You have to give yourself time to relax just as much as you give yourself time to do your work because it’s just so much of a balancing act You really have to prioritize doing something to treat yourself.” Tamar-Lynn Jean is a graduating senior and president of Howard University’s Gospel Choir Her journey to becoming president began as a chance encounter during her sophomore year.  “I did not know the Gospel choir existed until my sophomore year of college and this girl came up to me and handed me a flyer and said So you should audition for the choir,’ and I actually auditioned for the choir showing me where He wants me to be,” Jean said Her experience at Howard has also taught Jean the importance of kindness in building connections “I learned here that kindness will take you farther than one may think,” she explains “Just being kind to people and greeting the people that are in the building You’re gonna wake up one day and they’re gonna offer you something or ask you a question about your major and then boom you have an internship for the summer.”   The Jordan Announcement – Miketta Anderson a graduating senior and former member of Howard University’s Cheer Team and CheerPhi described her experience as nothing short of life-changing I’ve been a cheerleader my whole life and being a HBCU Cheerleader especially was my dream,” Anderson said Some of her favorite moments with the team took place late-nights at Greene Stadium.”It felt like there was nobody else on campus with us,” she recalls Just being there with the people that I love Those are moments that I will remember forever,” said Anderson Another standout moment was being part of the Jordan Brand campaign “When Jordan announced they were sponsoring the sports teams It was such a cool experience and a huge deal for me,” Anderson said Anderson encourages students to take full advantage of their surroundings You go to Howard in the middle of the city You don’t have to always be on campus,” she said There’s events happening all over the city You are in a unique position to not be at a college just in the middle of nowhere but you’re in the middle of the nation’s capital is a graduating senior and Director of Campus Health In Howard University Student Association (HUSA) and member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated Marshall has been driven by her passion for service and sisterhood.  Just being out there with all of my line sisters finally seeing all the different sorors coming from different places to see how Alpha Chapter brings in Founders Day,” she said I was just trying to be a part of this organization It was so surreal and so cool to be able to be out there.”   Marshall shared advice for incoming freshmen “Never let Howard change the person you are at your core If something doesn’t align with your morals or beliefs don’t do it just because you think it will benefit you It will actually probably harm you in the long run people lose that and never get it back,” Marshall said This interactive map highlights key campus locations and memories shared by graduating seniors Explore the map online to see the places that shaped their Howard experience.  and website in this browser for the next time I comment Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" Just months into President Donald Trump’s second term members of the Howard community are  grappling with the effects of his new policies Jordan has long been a prime location for Palestinian refugees straining their resources to near breaking point President Donald Trump has signed 143 executive orders Howard makes moves to remodel Wonder Plaza shutting down various popular campus restaurants such as Negril From canceled internship programs to navigating working on government projects in an uncertain political climate Howard students touch on the impact DEI rollbacks have.. The New York Times recently released an article about Black men’s declining HBCU enrollment President Donald Trump signed an executive order with the goal to develop and advance HBCUs leaving some students in shock former athletes are using their platforms to share insights and personal stories HUSA President Jay Jones reflected on the challenges and obstacles that shaped her as a leader some Black women are choosing to protect their peace and find community in the “92 percent” movement As the job market becomes more competitive Howard University community members debate the recent expansion of the AFRO cluster course requirement some arguing that the variety may impact the requirement’s original.. Bison,  It has been the honor of my academic career to work at The Hilltop.  As I type this out Men’s golf continued their victory record at the NEC Championship where they secured another first place title Copyright © 2021 The Hilltop: The Student Voice of Howard University Home » Gallery » Srinagar: Hajj pilgrims departs for Mecca #Gallery JAKARTA — Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto visited the Makkah Route Initiative lounge at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta on Sunday He was accompanied by Saudi Ambassador to Indonesia Faisal Al-Amoudi and Indonesian Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar.During the visit the Indonesian president was briefed on the operational progress at the initiative lounge He was informed about the measures implemented to streamline pilgrim journeys and expedite processing aiming to maximize service efficiency and enhance ease and convenience for pilgrims while performing their rituals.The Makkah Route Initiative is designed to provide high-quality services to pilgrims from beneficiary countries ensuring a seamless and welcoming experience It involves completing all necessary procedures in their home countries starting with biometric data collection and electronic Hajj visa issuance followed by passport processing at the departure airport after health requirement verification.Baggage is then coded and sorted according to transportation and accommodation arrangements in the Kingdom pilgrims are transported directly by bus to their residences in Makkah and Madinah via designated routes while partner agencies handle the delivery of their luggage.The Ministry of Interior spearheads the implementation of this initiative in collaboration with several key government bodies including the ministries of foreign affairs as well as the General Authority of Civil Aviation the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority Saudi Gazette report RIYADH — The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) has enhanced 11 international airports with technical services to facilitate pilgrims’ journey under the Makkah Route Initiative for the year 2025 These airports are located in seven countries being implemented by the Ministry of Interior in collaboration with several government entities These upgrades employ the latest digital technologies powered by data and AI.SDAIA’s ongoing efforts aimed to support the initiative annually ensuring smooth travel procedures for pilgrims from departure in their home countries to arrival in Saudi airports and their return journey and tranquility.SDAIA’s technical team monitors the systems and workstations associated with the initiative across the 11 airports automatically to ensure operational continuity and smooth processes while also providing continuous technical support to address any emergency malfunctions thereby ensuring the highest levels of performance and integration.SDAIA equipped biometric registration stations for pilgrims at the airports with the latest technologies to provide integrated services for beneficiaries of the initiative in addition to deploying mobile workstations It also prepared the technical infrastructure to the highest standards to ensure the readiness of all entry points and the swift completion of procedures for pilgrims in line with its operational plan.SDAIA conducted multiple high-availability tests on all systems and technical devices to ensure their efficiency and completed all necessary technical integrations with relevant entities to guarantee procedural integration and the swift effective registration of pilgrims’ biometric data with optimal speed and efficiency.SDAIA’s efforts for this year’s Hajj aim to integrate with all relevant government sectors to provide the best possible services to pilgrims in line with the directives of the Kingdom’s wise leadership which emphasize doing everything possible to serve the pilgrims in support of the Pilgrim Experience Program — one of the Saudi Vision 2030’s initiatives The Royal Institute of Traditional Arts (Wrth) and Namaa Almunawara have signed a strategic memorandum of understanding (MoU) at the institute's headquarters in Riyadh The agreement aims to enhance cooperation in the fields of supporting traditional arts and preserving the national cultural heritage particularly as this year marks The Year of Handicrafts Areas of cooperation include developing human capacity through implementing training programs and workshops and designing and arbitrating specialized programs The MoU also supports the handicrafts sector by launching entrepreneurial initiatives in addition to organizing local and international events and exhibitions and developing community initiatives related to traditional arts Saudi Gazette report RIYADH — Inspection teams from the Transport General Authority (TGA) have begun early operations at entry points to Makkah as part of extensive preparations to serve pilgrims during the Hajj season of 2025.Deployed across more than 20 locations the TGA teams are operating around the clock to assist pilgrims arriving in Makkah and Madinah Their daily operations focus on ensuring a seamless experience for pilgrims and verifying that all licensed operators adhere to approved regulations.The TGA has instructed all transport operators to comply with the approved regulations during the Hajj season and avoiding entry into Hajj-regulated areas without prior authorization.The authority also emphasized that drivers must wear the approved uniforms and obtain vehicle operating cards.The TGA underscored its continued collaboration with government agencies to ensure safe and secure transportation for all pilgrims It further advised the public that reports and inquiries can be submitted via the unified number (19929) or through the TGA’s Beneficiary Care account on social media President Prabowo Subianto announced on Sunday that the Indonesian government plans to establish an “Indonesian village” in Saudi Arabia to accommodate Hajj and Umrah pilgrims The proposal has reportedly received a positive response from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman “I’ve requested an audience with the leadership of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia I plan to discuss Indonesia’s proposal which I previously conveyed to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman,” Prabowo said during the inauguration ceremony of the new Hajj and Umrah Terminal at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Tangerang Prabowo noted that Indonesia sends around 2.2 million pilgrims annually for Hajj and Umrah with daily peak numbers reaching up to 12,000 people The proposed village would be located near the Grand Mosque (Masjid al-Haram) in Mecca to ease the movement of Indonesian pilgrims Saudi authorities have expressed openness to the idea “When I last met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman I conveyed Indonesia’s intention to build an Indonesian settlement in the Holy Land His response was quite positive -- he said ‘Let’s plan it thoroughly and technically,’” Prabowo recounted The Indonesian government plans to send Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar to hold further technical discussions with Saudi counterparts to explore the feasibility and details of the project Prabowo added that the government remains committed to improving services and lowering the cost of the Hajj pilgrimage “We’ll go back soon to follow up If approved by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia we hope to have our own designated area there and make our flight operations more efficient,” he said Indonesia has been allocated a Hajj quota of 221,000 pilgrims by the Saudi government The first wave of Indonesian pilgrims departed two days ago marking the beginning of the 2025 Hajj season 2025 /CNW/ -- The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has emphasized the necessity of obtaining an official permit to perform the Hajj pilgrimage for the 1446 AH season noting that this is a fundamental requirement for organizing the performance of the rituals and maintaining the safety and security of the pilgrims This comes within the framework of implementing the regulations and instructions governing Hajj affairs and ensuring the facilitation of the rituals with ease and tranquility The Ministry clarified that the relevant authorities will apply the prescribed penalties against anyone who violates Hajj instructions including those caught attempting to perform Hajj without a permit Violators will be subject to a fine of up to (20,000) Saudi Riyals The same fine will also be applied to holders of all types of visit visas if they enter or attempt to enter Makkah Al-Mukarramah or remain there during the period from the 1st of Dhu al-Qidah until the end of the 14th of Dhu al-Hijjah penalties can reach (100,000) Saudi Riyals for those who facilitate visit visas for individuals who perform or attempt to perform Hajj without a permit Fines will be multiplied according to the number of violating individuals with the application of procedures including the deportation of trespassing residents and a ten-year ban from entering the Kingdom as well as the confiscation of any land transportation vehicle proven to have been used in transporting holders of all types of visit visas to the city of Makkah Al-Mukarramah and the Holy Sites The Ministry pointed out that Hajj is only permissible with an official permit for domestic pilgrims or a regular Hajj visa for pilgrims from abroad stressing that all other types of visas do not authorize their holders to perform the pilgrimage It also warned against being misled by fraudulent campaigns and promoters of deceptive advertisements urging everyone to report them immediately through official channels The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah continues its efforts in coordination with relevant authorities to raise awareness organize the performance of the pilgrimage and provide the best services to ensure the comfort and tranquility of the pilgrims and to achieve the objectives of the comprehensive organization of the Hajj season Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2679133/Ministry_of_Hajj_and_Umrah_Logo.jpg Business development department +966 55 327 0066 [email protected] Do not sell or share my personal information: Arabian Business: Latest News on the Middle East, Real Estate, Finance, and More Transport > Saudia offers more than 1m Hajj seats and plans $27m investment in Makkah Saudia Group has announced major plans for the 2025 Hajj season Saudia Group has unveiled its comprehensive plan for the 2025 Hajj Season announcing its official entry into the Hajj services sector aiming to redefine the pilgrimage experience the Group will serve as a full Hajj service provider marking a new chapter in its commitment to elevating the spiritual journey of pilgrims Its offerings will now extend far beyond air travel to include a range of innovative services that cater to every aspect of the pilgrim experience From the initial planning stage to the smallest details at the holy sites pilgrims will benefit from enhanced support and care Saudia Group will offer more than one million seats over a 74-day period and utilize its fleet of 158 aircraft This commitment aligns with the directives of the Saudi leadership and is supported by collaborations with various government and private entities involved in serving Hajj pilgrims said: “Hajj remains one of our top national priorities we’re proud to not only manage air operations at full capacity but to also extend our role to become a direct service provider to pilgrims we aim to deliver a holistic experience that meets the highest standards of care and hospitality “We’re investing over SR100m ($26.7m) in Makkah and the holy sites to provide pilgrims with thoughtfully curated service packages to redefine the concept of Hajj service delivery setting a new standard for excellence.” Adopting a direct-to-consumer (B2C) model for these new offerings in accordance with the directives of the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Saudia Group will serve approximately 1,400 international pilgrims from the United States The holistic approach of the Group and its subsidiaries will enhance the quality of services provided to Hajj pilgrims including hotel accommodations overlooking the Two Holy Mosques and catering tailored to the pilgrims’ local tastes Saudia Group will also bring enhanced comfort and privacy to the holy sites introducing Business Class-style beds and dedicated rest areas inspired by Alfursan lounges Consistent with its commitment to local development Saudia Group has dedicated 29 per cent of its procurement and investments to supporting local content driving economic growth within the Kingdom This is further reinforced through the recruitment of qualified national talent and the training of future professionals at Saudia Academy in key areas such as crowd management and exceptional service delivery Saudia started its operational plan for this year’s Hajj season representing frontline staff and aircraft maintenance technicians are contributing to deliver smooth operations across airports working in close coordination with government and private entities The “Makkah Route” initiative is expected to serve more than 120,000 pilgrims while the “Luggage First” service will manage approximately 270,000 bags and 240,000 Zamzam bottles Saudia welcomed the arrival of the first Hajj flight SV3803 from Dhaka carrying 396 pilgrims to King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah including convenient boarding pass issuance for both outbound and return flights at the airports Its multilingual staff ensure seamless communication delivering top-notch service with expertise and specially curated programs in collaboration with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah that provide guidance on rituals and local regulations Additional services for individuals with special needs will also be available including transportation for people with disabilities and medical stretcher services as required including Bangladeshi and Sudanese nationals were arrested in Khamis Mushayt in the Asir region for their involvement in fraudulent acts related to a fake Hajj campaign The Khamis Mushayt police referred them to the Public Prosecution after taking the necessary legal action against them.The five-member gang was found involved in posting misleading Hajj campaign advertisements on social media claiming to provide housing and transportation for pilgrims within the holy sites in Makkah The Public Security called on citizens and expatriates to adhere to Hajj regulations and instructions and to report any violations by calling the number 911 in the regions of Makkah and Eastern Province and the number 999 in the rest of the Kingdom’s regions (KESQ) - A theft in Mecca led to two schools being placed on lockdown Thursday afternoon According to the Riverside County Sheriff's Office deputies were serving a search warrant related to a theft in the 65000 block of Dale Kiler Road four subjects left the location in a vehicle but the suspects ran from the vehicle," a spokesperson for the agency told News Channel 3 Deputies searched the area and located two suspects Two schools in Mecca have been placed on lockdown Frances Esparza confirmed to News Channel 3 Saul Martinez Elementary School and Mecca Elementary School are on lockdown as a precautionary measure because air support is above the campuses Esparza confirmed that all students were safe Esparza initially said the lockdown was related to a nearby train theft the Riverside County Sheriff's Office did not confirm whether this was the case only confirming that the search warrant was related to a theft investigation A News Channel 3 crew was at the scene of the search warrant service on Dale Kiler Road and 7th Street News Channel 3 is committed to providing a forum for civil and constructive conversation Please keep your comments respectful and relevant. You can review our Community Guidelines by clicking here If you would like to share a story idea, please submit it here Terms of Service | Privacy Policy | Community Guidelines KESQ-TV FCC Public File | KPSP-TV FCC Public File | KDFX-TV FCC Public File | EEO Report | FCC Applications | Do Not Sell My Personal Information Bison who are changing the world to make it a better place right now and for future generations Howard University in the springtime is arguably one of the best times to be on campus The Yard begins to become beautifully colored with new greenery the Greek organizations have released their newest pledges students and families are touring the campus and the seniors are preparing for graduation One of the most notable weeks of events of any spring at Howard is Springfest This year’s Springfest theme was “Made in the Mecca.” From April 13 to 19 the Undergraduate Student Association (UGSA) produced a series of events capturing the essence of Howard’s culture and what it means to be “Made in the Mecca.” Many of Howard’s student performers gathered Tuesday at Cramton Auditorium for the annual Springfest Talent Showcase The talent show is one of highlights of the Springfest week giving attendees a true taste of the Mecca Howard student-creatives are an important part of the university’s legacy as a center for Black people and culture.  “Howard put me around other creatives and other people with my same mindset,” shared recurring Springfest Talent Showcase performer William Bradley II “It put me outside of my comfort zone of just making what I thought music should sound like Being surrounded by so many different creatives in the community inspired me to hone and work on my craft.” Bradley’s comments underscore the value in the creative community provided by Howard as the Mecca The university provides a space for evolution and growth of the new age of artists and creatives Highlighting the artist community of the student body during Springfest shines light on Howard’s past and future as a cultural hotspot for creativity.  Howard is and continues to be fashion forward the Bison are going to show up and show out The Springfest Fashion Show continues to reinforce the power of community “Soulscape,” provided an eye-catching combination of style The looks of the show did not fail to stun the crowd from the fierce and fabulous makeup to the intricately detailed and coordinated outfits there is a beautiful community of Howard student-creatives behind the scenes who worked tirelessly to bring this show to life.  As a member of the ELITE modeling organization Shade assisted in the oversight of all styling related to the show from marketing to the actual looks that walked the runway it was kind of like a good crown jewel on my journey at Howard,” he commented “I think the best part about being in creative communities is that you’re always feeding off of each other’s ideas I was still learning and getting inspired from the people under me.”  To be made in the Mecca is to be developed as a leader As Shade and the many others who helped bring this week to life demonstrate and endurance — all of which is instilled in Howard students through their matriculation at the university Inspiration runs through the Howard hallways and rings throughout the campus and the greatest source of this inspiration continues to be the students our Bison grow alongside during their journey.  The Springfest Concert is the most highly anticipated event of the week Featuring big name artists like Cash Cobain and friends UGSA did not come to play with this spring’s lineup The openers for the concert were graduating senior Phyllise “Phyllise Jade” Tolliver and Springfest Talent Showcase winner and junior Me’Kayla “Me’Kayla Chenai” Rothmiller.  “I wanted to showcase how I learned how to be myself and have a great time,” Phyllise said when asked about the message she hoped her final performance conveyed not only did I showcase how lyrics and words could change and impact our culture; I also showcased the personality that I’ve come to have in college It is confident and who I’ve worked hard to become and I just laid it out on the stage.” Howard University reaches the passion in the hearts of our Bison and encourages commitment and excellence to any and everything students put their minds to.  all the while knowing that Howard will and always be home base The Mecca has been attributed to Howard University due to its ability to gather masses of Black people and culture and unite them on common interests and passions Those who gather on the Hilltop later go out into the world and share the love and excellence gained from being at Howard.  what does it truly mean to be “Made in the Mecca?” Here is what some of our graduating Class of 2025 had to say:  it just means everything that encompasses Howard Being at Howard taught me so much and I can honestly use all the skills that I learned here in my life and in my postgrad opportunities and so much of me is Howard now.” – To’Niya Richardson “When I hear “Made in the Mecca,” I think about the Black leaders and creatives who have come from the Mecca It describes my journey because I am also a Black leader and being a part of the Mecca has helped me learn my place as a Black sociologist and as a Black person fighting for freedom.” – William Bradley II sociology major Political Science minor from Atlanta themed "Made in The Mecca," took place from April 13th to April 19th all celebrating Howard's culture and legacy “Never take no for an answer and be all that you are You can be the center of your world and paint your story as well as tell stories.” – Phyllise Tolliver all the Black people who I think are going to be the movers and shakers of the next 30 years being made in the Mecca helps me recognize that I got that cut in me too.” – Jeremiah Shade to be made in the Mecca is to grow alongside the future while being inspired and encouraged by the past The Mecca encompasses all of Howard’s history and is not something that can be conveyed through a campus tour or seen in a brochure It is a unique experience and aspect of Howard in which the true soul and essence of our university lies; one that Springfest 2025 captured beautifully Congratulations to the graduates and cheers to the next generation; we hope the Mecca we are leaving you echoes our joys and soothes our sorrows Our public relations team can connect you with faculty experts and answer questions about Howard University news and events He reiterated NAHCON’s commitment to staff support throughout the Hajj period The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has officially commenced 2025 Hajj operations with the departure of its advance team to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia NAHCON spokesperson Shafii Mohammed said the team comprising key operational staff and senior members of the National Medical Team departed Abuja on Monday following a farewell ceremony held at the Hajj House The director of administration and human resources commended the team’s performance during the previous Hajj and reaffirmed his trust in team members and the management to continue to extend support to the team to ensure a successful outing the NAHCON chairman urged the team to approach the assignment with a deep sense of duty and commitment emphasising the sanctity of the task ahead and discharge your responsibilities with sincerity He assured them of the commission’s backing and reminded them to fear Allah as they execute their duties assured the team that the chairman had already approved welfare packages The advance team is responsible for establishing the groundwork for the entire Hajj operation airport reception protocols and coordination with Saudi Hajj authorities The team’s efforts will pave the way for seamless arrival and welfare of Nigerian pilgrims The departure of the team marks a major milestone in the 2025 Hajj preparations and the official start of Nigeria’s participation in this year’s pilgrimage one of the largest religious gatherings in the world We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook The federal government has urged stakeholders in the agriculture and finance sectors in the West Africa region to leverage financing strategies to enhance agroecology practices “Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.” The governor assured the residents that the state government was taking steps to alleviate their plight Mrs Ajisafe-Aluko added that the government recognised the impact of climate change on rainfall patterns “The task of these committees is to ensure that everything is in place before the arrival of the first batch of pilgrims.’’ Mr Bolarinwa advocated local production of drugs and vaccines in Nigeria The minister added that Malaysia would deepen cooperation with BRICS and further diversify its markets Julius Pondi and Victor Nwokolo are the lawmakers © 2025 Peoples Gazette™ Limited New York City is a special place to be Muslim When the sun sets a little after 7:20 p.m. today, a little over 4.5 million Muslims observing Ramadan will be breaking fast. Out of those, about 725,000 are in New York City. With about 22.3 percent of America’s Muslims living in NYC one of the most known communities practicing Islam in the five boroughs is Harlem Harlem is where Malcolm X (El Hajj Malik Shabazz) started his Organization of Afro-American Unity in Hotel Theresa after leaving the Nation of Islam (NOI) who is part of the Exonerated 5 (formerly demeaned as the Central Park 5) imams from West Africa sit with families who migrated to the Black Mecca Because there is diversity in spiritual practices amongst Black people Nestled between storefront churches and bodegas—from Harlem to the bottom of Washington Heights—there are at least 15 mosques The sounds wafting onto the street capture the mixture Reverberating out of my home are nightly prayers This is sewn in between the smells of spicy Senegalese thieboudienne the moist folds of Trinidadian roti and the sweetness of Southern cornbread yet hold distinct identities that at times are harmonious In this enclave rich with history and expression there are converts along with those born into the religion and those who are in political-religious organizations practicing Islam from their cultural standpoints | Read: You gotta have faith: Islamic and Jewish groups open their door to the poor and tired during Hurricane Harvey In Harlem, I am an immigrant, but in Islam, my family is rooted and ancient. As someone whose family comes from Senegal, my lineage into Islam emerged when the religion crossed the Sahel around the 8th Century and planted itself in what is now West Africa my spiritual life flows between Senegal and Manhattan and the Muslim experience crosses many waters with some being uncharted Being a Muslim in Harlem is both beautiful and complex We are taught that Muslims are brothers and sisters but the on-going question for those who practice  is there is a complicated relationship between Black American and African observers that emerges in this query While there are differences between the groups I venture out on an evening after breaking fast during Ramadan month-long observance for Muslims to fast (sawm) which is incense in the form of resins and herbs My photos of Khadiyah were before the second Trump win but right after Salaam’s successful campaign for his seat as councilman “What are your feelings about the recent win of our Muslim brother Yusef Salaam in city council?”  “I don’t pay too much attention to politics.” Councilman Salaam’s campaign and life activated me to volunteer for a couple of days during his first campaign With the small number of Muslim representation in politics his presence as an elected official would make a difference The devout practitioner explained why he did not vote and refused to participate in the electoral process If “any corruption that comes with [any politician I voted for then] voting for someone who lacks the ethical constitution he ascribes to is “un-Islamic.”  So Salam’s win carried mixed perspectives in the Manhattan community The youth—my peers from New York University who saw him speak at a symposium—expressed satisfaction on social media when he was elected some elders voiced dismay due to his alliance with the NOI said that the NOI once served a purpose in the U.S “They are practicing something that elevated Black people at a time when they needed to be elevated there needs to be a point of growth,” he asserted “You have to elevate yourself with the truth and some people are stuck in their old ways My talk with Khadiyah and Suleiman was at the tail end of Ramadan years ago still resonates in communities throughout the country there is an emphasis on things far from my Harlem experience While I am still parsing out the complicated relationship in the Muslim community Sign up for Ark Republic's Weekly Check in New Jersey is a large contributor to national elections December 21 is the longest night of the year Ancient civilizations celebrated its significance we can get lost in the superficial aspects of the January is a perfect time to take hold of your purpose as if it were a but this still is an important time of the Email: buildwithus@arkrepublic.com Phone: 973-988-5881 Location: Newark We recognise you are attempting to access this website from a country belonging to the European Economic Area (EEA) including the EU which enforces the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and therefore cannot grant you access at this time e-mail us at news@eagletribune.com or call us at 978-946-2000 Please enable JS and disable any ad blocker Hajj-only entry curbs leave Mecca’s Grand Mosque mataf nearly empty Dubai: In an unusual and rare scene, the mataf — the white marble-paved area surrounding the Holy Kaaba at the Grand Mosque in Mecca — has recently seen nearly empty marking a rare moment of calm ahead of the annual Hajj season Only a small number of foreign pilgrims arriving on the first day of permitted Hajj entry were seen performing tawaf Video footage captured the near emptiness of the mataf a space typically thronged with worshippers throughout the year The scene is the result of strict entry measures enforced by Saudi authorities to prepare for Hajj 1446H (2025) individuals not holding a Hajj visa or official permit are barred from staying in or entering Mecca The Ministry of Tourism has instructed all travel agencies and hospitality providers in the holy city to refrain from booking or checking in anyone without valid Hajj documentation or authorised work or residency permits in Mecca These measures follow an earlier directive issued by the Directorate of Public Security banning all expatriates without official permits from entering Mecca starting April 23 The measures are part of Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to ensure the safety By restricting access solely to those with the proper documentation authorities aim to maintain order and enable the smooth organisation of the pilgrimage The Ministry of Interior confirmed that Tuesday was also the final day for Umrah pilgrims to leave the Kingdom are now prohibited from entering or staying in Mecca Umrah permit issuance through the Nusuk platform has been suspended until June 10 for both Saudi citizens and residents the number of pilgrims in the Grand Mosque is expected to increase steadily in the coming days as pilgrims from across the globe continue to arrive in the Kingdom for their once-in-a-lifetime spiritual journey Expats without permits now banned from entering Mecca Saudi Arabia spells out health rules for Hajj workers Today's print edition Home Delivery a workshop rattles with the mechanical rhythm of old sewing machines beams of afternoon light catch motes of dust Rows of metal molds rest like oversized cookie cutters while gleaming kohaze (clasps) spill out of open boxes gears whir and skilled craftspeople shape tabi Japan’s traditional split-toe socks.googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1499653692894-0'); }); the town about 90 minutes north of Tokyo boasted over 200 tabi workshops and up to 500 ancillary businesses such as tabi packaging and printing its artisans churned out more than 84 million split-toe pairs each year In a time of both misinformation and too much information quality journalism is more crucial than ever.By subscribing Your subscription plan doesn't allow commenting. To learn more see our FAQ Sponsored contents planned and edited by JT Media Enterprise Division Another farm in Palm Beach County will soon be gone replaced by 26 estate homes on a 26-acre parcel in an incorporated area of the county bordering Haverhill The Mecca family has been farming tomatoes on the property since 1973 but it is no longer profitable for them to continue according to a spokeswoman from the family who testified before county commissioners during a Feb “The NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement) trade agreement was the beginning of the end for tomato farmers in the county,” she said “Ninety percent of them have already gone out of business Local farmers have had to sell to developers The legacy of this great farming Mecca family is The Reserve at Eagles Landing.” NAFTA established a free-trade zone in North America and was signed in 1992 by Canada tariffs on the majority of goods produced by the three nations were lifted Coincidentally, President Donald Trump's decision to impose 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico while doubling the duties on some Chinese goods to 20% as part of his "America First" agenda likely would have helped Palm Beach County farmers Vanishing farmland: More farms in Palm Beach County are being sold to developersFarm after farm in recent years has been sold to make way for development The good news for farmers is that they have been able to cash out and sell their property for tens of millions of dollars The Palm Beach Post reported in 2022 that hundreds of acres of farmland were being gobbled up by developers Department of Agriculture reported an alarming loss in farms of 500 or more there were 26 such farms in Palm Beach County Those two sales alone resulted in the loss of more than 1,500 acres of farmland to residential development More: An influx of wealth, CEOs and financial firms is changing the shape and style of West Palm a suburban Boca Raton resident who lives adjacent to the Johns farm to urge county commissioners in 2022 to “stop paving paradise to put up a parking lot.”  there was no discussion of the loss of another farm other than the Mecca family spokeswoman saying the Meccas had no choice but to stop farming County commissioners unanimously approved the needed zoning changes to allow the Reserve at Eagles Landing development to move forward The zoning was changed from Agricultural Residential to Residential Single Family They also received approval to increase the density from one dwelling unit per 10 acres to one dwelling unit per acre they will be able to build the maximum number of homes The Mecca family justified the zoning changes by noting that a recent boom in population has put significant strain on the housing market with a large number of employers relocating their operations to Palm Beach County “These new residents now compete with existing residents for a limited supply of housing resulting in price increases and other market impacts,” the Mecca family said in the application submitted to the county Staff concluded that the rezoning was appropriate was that the development will add to overcrowding at Discovery Key The large estate homes will have lots that are about 140 feet wide and 200 feet deep The property is located just west of State Road 7 and just south of Lantana Road and Lago Del Sol Drive “We purchased our house 12 years ago to be in suburbia but still have that rural secretive area no one knows we're back there Anything that can be done to try to keep it as farming land is greatly appreciated.” Home » Gallery » Muslim Hajj Pilgrims Depart from Srinagar for Mecca #Gallery (KESQ) - Two people were pronounced dead after a crash Friday morning in Mecca The crash was first reported at around 10:15 a.m near the intersection of Grant Street and 68th Avenue CHP officer David Torres said that a red Toyota Tacoma was driving northbound on Grant when it collided with a black Toyota Tundra heading westbound on 68th the Tundra overturned and struck a power pole injuring a man and a woman inside the vehicle CHP records indicated that both occupants succumbed to their injuries at the scene within 25 minutes A 25-year-old man inside the Tacoma sustained minor injuries from the crash Torres said that alcohol and drugs are not suspected as a factor The identities of the victims have yet to be publicly released Stay with News Channel 3 for continuing updates Jessica Beresford Simply sign up to the Style myFT Digest -- delivered directly to your inbox When Australian retailer Mecca opens the doors to its new Melbourne flagship in May it will lay claim to being one of the biggest bricks-and-mortar beauty stores in the world terracotta-clad building that was once an old book arcade at 299 Bourke Street Most recently the premises of Australian retailer David Jones’s menswear department the site has been restored to its interwar glory Mexican-inspired art deco details and arched windows are set against Le Bon Marché-style scissor escalators an apothecary section aimed at holistic beauty an aesthetic clinic offering full dermal treatments including lasers and injectables and a “350sq m ode to the spectacular magnificence of fragrance” Horgan adds: “It’s high-level luxury service.” which is consistently the bestselling product across the company We set out to give control back to the customer Mecca is privately owned by Horgan and her husband Peter Wetenhall although speculation is rife about a potential sale although it says it has grown tenfold in the past eight years a report by IBIS put Mecca’s revenues at close to $1bn (about £500mn) while an industry source estimates revenues to be north of £750mn Horgan in the ‘Feedback is a gift’ meeting room at the Mecca offices © Jo DuckThis figure pales in comparison to that of its main competitor, Sephora which posted double-digit growth in revenue and profit in 2024 (the company does not break out exact figures but its selective retailing arm posted €18bn in revenue) and has more than 3,000 stores in 35 countries “Mecca is an incredibly successful cosmetic retailer in Australia with large-format stores that are real destinations and do incredible turnover,” says Craig Woolford “They’ve largely been able to see off the threat from Sephora coming to the Australian market The go-to cosmetics destination for most people is Mecca.” where she admired “the way they layered different divisions to appeal to different consumers” Jo Horgan’s office looking out across the company headquarters © Jo DuckThe first Mecca store opened on Toorak Road in 1998 © Supplied by MeccaWorking at the biggest beauty company in the world spurred her to launch Mecca aiming to disrupt an industry that she says was no longer serving customers “It was this monopolistic approach where department stores absolutely dominated – they had 80 per cent share in Australia – and these massive global brands owned the retail space the airwaves… They owned everything.” She adds that but many of the big companies were run by men who didn’t know how to serve that base and instead relied on focus groups “I felt that there was a more instinctive way to play it.” all of which were new to the Australian market and whose size now owes a great deal to Mecca’s early support “We set out with a clear vision to give control back to the customer niche brands [to market] and provide an environment where the brands are in control of their experience,” she says Key to Mecca’s success – which didn’t come easily for the first four years – is customer loyalty which Horgan attributes to the brand’s exceptional service and education “We have built up a model where we spend four per cent of our turnover on education and ‘engagement of team’ and I think that has honestly been the core engine driver [of the business].” Adds Woolford: “Mecca’s focus is on having a great store experience and generating a lot of sales This is reiterated in the Bourke Street flagship with its new “MECCAversity” auditorium – an education space that will facilitate staff training as well as masterclasses and seminars for customers to learn about everything from how to master winged eyeliner to flower arranging and financial literacy “We have such a powerful opportunity to redefine what beauty means to an already engaged consumer,” says Horgan “I think health and wellness now is such a part of this industry and we have a broader responsibility to expand our customer’s knowledge about anything and everything.” It’s such a powerful opportunity to redefine what beauty means Much of the customer hype at Mecca is generated by its loyalty programme Beauty Loop which counted 2.9 million members last year They are rewarded with a box of samples that arrives four times a year the value of which is determined by different tiers based on annual spend while Level Four is gained by forking out more than $3,500 for those who spend more than $10,000 a year “Mecca’s Beauty Loop performs extremely well with consumers due to the high perceived value of rewards and the extent to which they delight shoppers with ‘surprise’ gifts,” says McKinsey & Company associate partner Amanda Winchester this has allowed a natural community to form and create buzz around the programme online.” A montage of images and inspirations on show in Horgan’s office © Jo DuckThe reward of Beauty Loop is an alternative to discounting which Mecca doesn’t do – much to the dismay of some shoppers “Our philosophy is that we are ‘value add’ “I think everybody else is racing to the bottom transactional experience at one end of the spectrum and we want to be at the other end.” Mecca has already tested the international market Its product launch into the UK and Europe is another international test as well as a means to build brand recognition Horgan is still “noodling” about what global expansion will look like but her mission is clear: “[The goal] was to be Australasia’s number one beauty destination,” she says “Now we’ve changed it to be the world’s most-loved beauty destination And while we do want everybody making the pilgrimage to Mecca Bourke Street It almost feels like a social responsibility to take what I think is a genuinely differentiated beauty experience global.”