Decades of Service: Scout Leader Helps Children Who Get Lost during Hajj

Mina: Hajj season is testament to the spirit of volunteerism, with individuals like Dr. Nasser bin Ali Al-Khalifi dedicating themselves to serving pilgrims for over 56 years. As a distinguished scout leader, Al-Khalifi’s journey began with caring for the children lost in the camps organized by the Saudi Arabian Scouts Association.

He has remained steadfast in this mission throughout the years, until the responsibility was passed on to women scouts, “who are often better suited to connect with children”, Al-Khalifi said.

A native of Makkah, he put his knowledge of the city to good use by becoming a volunteer field guide for pilgrims.

For years, Al-Khalifi played a pivotal role in reuniting lost children with their families. He described those years as the most fulfilling in his volunteer experience. Witnessing the overwhelming joy of parents reuniting with their children, or the simple comfort of children playing together, brought immense satisfaction. The dedicated children’s care center provided a safe
haven for lost children, offering games, clothing, food, and sweets.

Al-Khalifi’s scouting journey began at a young age, when he started as a cub scout, and continuing through his university years. He later became a scout leader.

He highlighted the critical role of technology in streamlining the process of reuniting lost children with their families.

Source: Saudi Press Agency