Training center for Haj service providers to open in Jeddah

The Ministry of Haj plans to establish a special training center in Jeddah for Haj and Umrah service providers, a ministry official said.
The center would provide special training for government officials and employees of private establishments so that they provide “excellent services for Haj and Umrah pilgrims,” said Muhammad Simsim, adviser to the Minister of Haj and supervisor of the training programs, on Thursday.
The center is being established in line with the directives of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah and Crown Prince Salman, deputy premier and minister of defense, Simsim said.
He said several establishments under the supervision of the ministry are responsible for transporting, accommodating and guiding pilgrims throughout their stay.
The ministry decided earlier this month to prioritize the training of all service providers, he said. “The ministry realizes that training is a vital factor in preparing a workforce capable of serving pilgrims in the most ideal manner,” he said.
The center would recruit highly qualified trainers and collaborate with experienced institutions in the Kingdom and abroad, he said.
Bandar Hajjar, the Haj minister, is committed to having a qualified workforce, combined with the latest technology, for the upcoming Haj season, the official said.
The ministry also views the training as an investment and essential measure to achieve qualitative improvements in administration and fieldwork. The ministry would collaborate with community colleges and universities. The training programs would include workshops, lectures and conferences, he said.