MAKKAH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior announced the successful conclusion of the Hajj 2026 season, saying preparations for next year’s pilgrimage have already begun even before the last pilgrims depart for their home countries, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
More than 1.7 million pilgrims performed Hajj this year, according to figures released by the General Authority for Statistics, including 1,546,655 pilgrims from abroad and 160,646 citizens and residents from within the Kingdom.
The ministry said the end of one Hajj season marks the beginning of preparations for the next, with security and operational plans undergoing immediate review and development from Mina once pilgrimage rituals are completed.
The Ministry of Interior, regional principalities, security sectors and partner agencies coordinated efforts throughout the season to safeguard pilgrims and facilitate the smooth performance of rituals across the holy sites.
Field security and traffic plans facilitated the movement of pilgrims between Mina, Arafat and Muzdalifah. (SPA photo)
