RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has begun the large-scale departure of pilgrims following the completion of Hajj 2026, with authorities across the Kingdom’s air, sea and land entry points implementing plans to ensure a smooth journey home, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
The first departure flights carrying guests of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Program for Hajj, Umrah and Visit left the holy city of Madinah after pilgrims completed Hajj rituals and visits to the Prophet’s Mosque.
The guests departed through Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport after what organizers described as a spiritually enriching journey that included prayers at the Prophet’s Mosque, visits to Al-Rawdah Al-Sharifah and tours of historical and cultural landmarks in Makkah and Madinah.
The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, which oversees the program, said pilgrims also took part in educational, cultural and enrichment activities designed to deepen their understanding of Islam and showcase Saudi Arabia’s efforts in serving pilgrims and visitors to the Two Holy Mosques.
More than 1.7 million pilgrims performed Hajj this year, according to figures released by the General Authority for Statistics. (SPA)
