IDB holds meeting with Haj missions

A top official of the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) met with officials in charge of Haj missions and Haj affairs at embassies and consulates on Thursday to discuss ongoing awareness initiatives on a Kingdom-based project aimed at helping pilgrims fulfill their sacrificial obligations while ensuring hygiene standards in and around holy sanctuaries.
Ahmad Muhammad Ali, IDB president, said the aim of the meeting was to shed light on the Kingdom’s Project for the Utilization of Haj Meat (ADAHI) and sign potential memorandums of understanding in that domain.
Amad Rukan, a member of a services committee at the Haj Ministry, and Musa Al-Akasi, general supervisor of the ADAHI program, were also present.
The project aims to provide Shariah-compliant livestock, he said. Livestock are inspected by veterinarians and scholars periodically.
“There are almost 40,000 butchers and 800 veterinarians working in the project to ensure high standards,” he said.
The project, established in 1983 by the Kingdom, aims at utilizing Haj meat during the pilgrimage to avert waste while ensuring cleanliness around the holy sites.
The project essentially acts as a mediator for pilgrims in helping them tick off a religious obligation from their list.
The government also facilitates the distribution of meat to poor Islamic nations, he said.
“The project ensures meat distribution to Muslims most in need, both domestically and regionally. Pilgrims also find it much easier to fulfill their religious obligations through this program.”
Several Haj missions have already signed MoUs with the IDB for the use of this facility and program during Haj, he said.
Ali warned against random slaughtering. “Slaughtering animals outside of the designated area is illegal,” he said.
Pilgrims can either visit the slaughterhouse or buy vouchers or coupons, which are available on www.adahi.org.
Pilgrims can also purchase sacrificial animals through credit cards on toll-free number 800-430-6666.
A single coupon costs SR490, down from the previous SR600.