Saudis invite Iran to join Hajj talks

Newswatch

JEDDAH, Dec 29, (KUNA): Saudi Arabia is inviting an Iranian delegation to partake in scheduled discussions over efforts to accommodate Hajj pilgrims from the Islamic Republic, Saudi Minister of Hajj Dr Mohammad Saleh bin Taher Benten said on Thursday.

The Saudi government welcomes all pilgrims and visitors irrespective of nationality and religious affiliation, the Saudi Minister of Hajj told the press.

Moreover, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj is organizing discussions on Hajj affairs with delegations from more than 80 nations, with the aim of ensuring a seamless and successful Hajj season, where Muslims from all across the globe will convene for the largest Muslim congregation.

On the talks, he noted that the Saudi government is consulting with the delegations on an individual basis to facilitate the arrival of the pilgrims, adding that the Saudi government will spare no effort to cater to their needs.

Iranian pilgrims did not attend last year’s Hajj due to an escalating row between Tehran and Riyadh over the management of the Hajj pilgrimage.

KUWAIT CITY:

The Amiri Diwan mourned Thursday Shama Barakah Ebaid Abalhowayah, widow of late Sheikh Salem Al-Humoud AlJaber Al-Sabah.

Abalhowayah, passed away at age 76. She will be laid to rest Friday at 9: 00 am. (KUNA)

DUBAI:

Thick seasonal fog again has engulfed parts of the United

Arab Emirates, delaying flights and causing car crashes.

The UAE’s National Center of Meteorology & Seismology said Thursday that visibility dropped below 50 meters (55 yards) in some areas.

Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest for international travel and home to longhaul carrier Emirates, saw flight delays. Delays also hit Abu Dhabi and Sharjah’s international airports.

Dubai police said heavy fog caused 119 traffic crashes Wednesday and 107 on Thursday.

Separately, Abu Dhabi police said on Twitter a car crash killed five people near Liwa, without elaborating on the cause or saying if the fog played a factor.