Watani takes heroes to Mecca

Pilgrims from the Civil Defence, Ambulance and Rescue teams all joined together to visit Mecca as part of a recognition programme that Watani is conducting to honour the work of those exceptional people.

The "Umrah" is considered one of the most important rituals of Islam which should be performed at least once in life if one is physically and financially capable.

As they headed towards the long awaited journey, the pilgrims are guided by Watani's educational advisor Sheikh Mostafa Abdul Aal who explained the various phases of the ritual in a special ceremony organized in Dubai last week.

The pilgrims' anticipation and emotion were strong as one of them, a van driver in the rescue team said: "This is the first time I will perform Umrah, and I am extremely happy. I am grateful to Allah, HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Watani program for giving me such an opportunity."

As for Abdul Halim Mohamed Al Hashemi, Dubai police central prison officer said: "I was advised by one of my friends to enter Watani Umrah Campaign, and here I am going to Mecca. I am very grateful to Watani who are keen to provide all the needful to make our trip as rewarding as possible."

The Umrah trip also include visiting Al Madinah Al Monawarah where Profit Mohamed is buried and key landmarks in Mecca such as the process of manufacturing the Ka'aba cloth, and the Mecca Museum.

"It is our pleasure to be able to offer the very people who have put their lives at risk to protect and rescue others, this simple but glorious opportunity to perform a great act of worship that is dear to every Muslim. The UAE national identity is strongly tied to Islam and we see offering recognition to members of the community through religious practices as part of maintaining that identity. I am particularly happy that the candidates who come from various emirates and share the same love for the nation are now brought together by their faith," said Ahmed Al Mansoori, Coordinator General of Watani.

Last December, Watani had also organized Hajj trips for nationals and residents of the UAE; 22 pilgrims were chosen from different nationalities and age groups who performed Hajj, one of the main five pillars of Islam.