With the peak of the Hajj 1447 AH season, Saudi authorities announced the arrival of more than 1.6 million pilgrims from around the world to the holy lands. Today is the seventh of Dhul Hijjah, and the pilgrims of the House of Allah are gathering in Mecca in preparation for the Day of Tarwiyah and other Hajj rituals.

Record Numbers Despite Challenges

This year, the Kingdom recorded the highest number of pilgrims since the 2019 season, with the number exceeding 1.6 million pilgrims from abroad, a significant increase over last year. The pilgrims came from more than 150 countries, with Arab and Islamic countries leading the list of the most arriving nationalities. The number of pilgrims from Europe and the Americas also saw a noticeable increase.

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah confirmed that all arrangements are proceeding according to plan, with the provision of advanced services including transportation, accommodation, and healthcare. The Sacred Sites Train has also been operating at full capacity to transport pilgrims between the sites quickly and safely.

Exceptional Services for Pilgrims

This year, the Kingdom provided pilgrims with:

  • Digital Nusk Card — contains all the pilgrim’s information and permits.
  • Smart wristbands for location tracking and assisting lost pilgrims.
  • Comprehensive medical centers in the sacred sites operating 24/7.
  • Electronic applications providing direct guidance in multiple languages.

Enhanced Security Plans

Security forces have been deployed in large numbers across Mecca and the sacred sites to ensure the safety of the pilgrims. Authorities have intensified efforts to regulate traffic and manage crowds. Civil Defense has also prepared field teams to handle any emergencies.

In Medina, pilgrims are gathering to visit the Prophet’s Mosque before heading to Mecca to begin the rituals, amid comprehensive services from all concerned authorities.

Hajj: A Message of Peace and Tolerance

Amid regional events, the Kingdom sent a message of reassurance to the world that Hajj is a message of peace and tolerance. Pilgrims from countries experiencing tensions in the region participated, affirming that the Hajj ritual unites Muslims regardless of their homelands and circumstances.

As the day of Arafah — the ninth of Dhul Hijjah — approaches, the Kingdom is preparing to welcome millions to the Plain of Arafat, in the largest annual religious gathering in the world.

For more information: Ministry of Hajj and Umrah — haj.gov.sa