50 Years Later, Moroccan Fulfilling Long-Awaited Hajj Dream

A Moroccan woman, who had been dreaming of performing Hajj pilgrimage for over 50 years, has finally got the opportunity to fulfil her dream. Zahia Buchta, now 84, was overjoyed as she and her husband prepared to board a flight to Saudi Arabia from the Mohammad V International Airport in Casablanca. Muslims who are physically and financially capable of embarking on the Hajj are obligated to perform it at least once in their lifetime. Zahia is just one of many Moroccans taking advantage of the Mecca Route initiative, which was relaunched by Saudi Arabia’s Interior Ministry in 2018. The project offers facilities and ensures a smooth journey for pilgrims from several countries, including Pakistan, Indonesia and Morocco. Facilities include issuing electronic visas, finalising passport procedures, and sorting out luggage at the departure airports. On arrival in Saudi Arabia, pilgrims head directly to their residences in Mecca and Medina while their luggage is delivered to their accommodations.