Egypt wins historic silver shield at Saudi Arabia’s `Labbaytum` awards

MAKKAH — The Egyptian Hajj mission has secured a historic milestone, winning the Silver Shield at Saudi Arabia’s prestigious ‘Labbaytum’ Excellence Award for the first time in its history.

The award, which recognises outstanding services provided to the ‘Guests of Allah’, was presented in the Hajj Affairs Offices category.

Speaking exclusively to the Middle East News Agency (MENA) in Makkah on Saturday, the assistant minister of interior for administrative affairs and head of the executive body of the ministerial Hajj committee stated that the achievement reflects the extensive, coordinated efforts of Egypt’s three specialised missions: Public Lottery, Social Solidarity, and Tourism. He noted that their collective work successfully projected a highly civilised image of the country.

The official attributed the accolade to unprecedented cooperation and seamless coordination among the heads of the three bodies to ensure all the practical and logistical needs of Egyptian pilgrims were met.

Furthermore, he highlighted a heavy focus on guidance and awareness initiatives designed to educate pilgrims on the essential regulations, safety requirements, and rituals of the Hajj.

The Egyptian mission ultimately secured the Silver Shield due to its strict compliance with the rigorous timetables established by the Saudi authorities for Hajj Affairs Offices, ensuring a smooth and highly disciplined operations cycle throughout the pilgrimage.