Saudi paper warns Hajj pilgrims over 'random barbers'

It costs more to see a professional barber, but results are guaranteed

Muslims taking part in the annual Hajj pilgrimage have been warned against visiting "random barbers" who are plying their trade in Mecca.

According to the Arab News daily, the large number of pilgrims seeking to have their heads shaved as part of their essential rituals means that some Hajis are going to people "who deserve to be described as butchers" instead of seeking out qualified barbers for the task. The result is the sight of many in the tent city of Mina - which accommodates thousands of pilgrims - sporting bleeding heads, the paper says. It also leaves them open to the risk of infection.

One Haji tells Arab News that he went to one such barber out of sight of the authorities because it would take longer to find a qualified barber. There's a financial incentive, too. Rogue barbers charge only 10 riyals ($2.66; £2), as opposed to 30 for a professional shave. "Their main objective is to get their hands on money, disregarding any health and environmental standards," the paper warns, going on to say that Hajis are risking hepatitis or worse due to unhygienic blades.

Head-shaving is one of the final parts of the Hajj before pilgrims return home, and takes place after hurling stones at a pillar representing the devil.

In its overwhelmingly positive coverage of this year's Hajj following last year's fatal stampede, Saudi media has been at pains to show the efficiency and safety with which the pilgrimage is being run. Among the positive stories was one of a baby girl born to an Afghan pilgrim, and named Mina after her place of birth.

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