NTB Hajj Pilgrims Flock to Saudi Riyal Exchange Facility

Mataram (ANTARA) - Hundreds of Hajj pilgrims from the Lombok Embarkation in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) are flocking to the money exchange stall located inside the Mataram City Hajj Hostel before departing for Saudi Arabia. Observations by ANTARA NTB at the NTB Hajj Hostel on Saturday showed pilgrims arriving in droves to exchange Indonesian rupiah for Saudi riyals. The money exchange activity has been bustling since the morning, with pilgrims utilising the services available in the Hajj Hostel area for convenience and to avoid difficulties once in Saudi Arabia. Money exchange service officer, Rohani, stated that they provide various denominations of riyals according to the pilgrims’ needs. “All denominations are available, from 5 riyals to 500 riyals. Most pilgrims choose small denominations because they are easier to use,” she said. “Usually, pilgrims exchange money before entering their rooms, or after prayers and lunch. We have been ready since the morning,” she added. Rohani explained that the turnover of money in this exchange service is quite substantial. Based on previous years’ experience, the total exchange transactions can reach Rp1 billion. “If it’s in rupiah, it can reach Rp1 billion, depending on the pilgrims’ needs. If the stock runs out, it will be replenished from the office,” she revealed. “I exchanged for 5 riyal to 10 riyal denominations for needs during my stay in Saudi Arabia. We chose to exchange here because it’s easier; once there, we won’t have to bother anymore,” said one pilgrim. Meanwhile, the Head of Kloter 4 Bima, Abdul Haris, stated that each pilgrim has actually received a ‘living cost’ of 750 riyals. Nevertheless, many pilgrims still exchange additional money independently according to their needs. He mentioned that, in addition to the money exchange service, facilities for topping up mobile credit and communication packages are also available at the same location to help pilgrims stay connected with their families while in the Holy Land. However, the kloter officials do not provide special assistance in the money exchange process. The pilgrims are given the freedom to manage their individual needs. The bustling money exchange activity illustrates the pilgrims’ readiness to face the Hajj pilgrimage journey. In addition to physical and mental preparations, financial readiness in the form of Saudi riyals is also an important need for the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage.