Rabat – More than 1.7 million Muslims from around the world performed the Hajj pilgrimage this year in Saudi Arabia, according to figures released by the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT).
The total number of pilgrims reached 1,707,301, including 1,546,655 who arrived from outside the Kingdom and 160,646 citizens and residents already based in Saudi Arabia. Among them, 893,396 were men and 813,905 were women, the authority stated, citing data from the Ministry of Interior.
Moroccan participation in this year’s pilgrimage stood at 34,000 pilgrims. The Moroccan Ministry of Islamic Affairs set the basic cost for Moroccan citizens performing Hajj at MAD 63,021.
According to GASTAT, the majority of international pilgrims arrived via air travel, with 1,485,729 entering the Kingdom by plane. A further 54,429 crossed land borders, while 6,497 arrived by sea routes.
The latest figures represent an increase compared to last year’s total of 1,673,230 pilgrims, reflecting continued global demand for the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Makkah.
Saudi authorities deployed extensive security, healthcare, and logistical measures to ensure the safety and smooth movement of pilgrims throughout the holy sites in Makkah and surrounding areas.
The Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, is a mandatory religious duty for Muslims who are physically and financially able to undertake the journey at least once in their lifetime.
This year’s pilgrimage took place amid challenging weather conditions, with reports indicating daytime temperatures ranging between 42°C and 47°C across the holy sites.
Despite regional geopolitical tensions, authorities noted strong international participation, with pilgrims arriving from diverse countries to fulfill the sacred rites of Hajj.
