A number of Canadian pilgrims and officials stated that the Saudi Arabian government had eased their concerns in wake of the diplomatic between Riyadh and Ottawa, saying that the Kingdom had exceeded their expectations in regards to the services provided to facilitate their Hajj rituals.
Pilgrim Nadim Mohammed told Asharq Al-Awsat that he was concerned ahead of traveling to the Kingdom due to the diplomatic crisis.
“We were surprised, however, by the brilliant reception we received by the Saudi government and all of its representatives. I am at a loss for words over how to thank them,” he added.
“I honestly expected the crisis to weigh heavily on the Hajj and the Kingdom’s attitude towards us, but what I found was contrary to and exceeded my expectations,” he stressed.
One of the heads of the Canadian campaigns, Youssef Beydat told Asharq Al-Awsat: “I want to assure that none of the pilgrims were disturbed during their stay. On the contrary, they were warmly welcomed and we did not encounter any negative issue.”
“I believe the ongoing crisis will remain limited between the two governments and will not affect us as Canadian pilgrims on Saudi soil,” he said.
“I want to congratulate the Saudi government for this remarkable success in organizing the Hajj,” he added.
He noted the security measures that had been provided to the Canadians since their arrival, as well as the services available to them in Medina and the holy sites.
Moreover, Beydat said that the numbers of Muslim converts in Canada was growing, revealing: “In the area where I live, not a week goes by without hearing about a Canadian converting to Islam.”
