MINA: Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance has announced the arrival of 2,500 pilgrims from 104 countries under the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Guests Programme for 2026 Hajj season.
This year’s group includes 1,300 prominent Islamic scholars and international figures, along with 200 pilgrims from the Republic of Liberia and 1,000 Sudanese family members of martyrs and wounded personnel from pperations Decisive Storm and Restoring Hope, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported on Friday.
Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance Sheikh Abdullatif Al Alsheikh expressed gratitude to Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud for the annual initiative.
He said the ministry has implemented a comprehensive operational plan, including streamlined travel arrangements, specialised accommodation, and guided cultural programmes in Makkah and Madinah, to ensure the guests can perform their Hajj rituals, including the arrival Tawaf, in comfort and peace.
Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam, and every Muslim who is physically and financially able is expected to undertake the pilgrimage at least once in their lifetime.
According to the Saudi Supreme Court the Day of Arafat, the most significant day of Hajj will be observed on Tuesday, May 26.
Millions of pilgrims from around the world gather at Mount Arafat to perform the central ritual of the pilgrimage, spending the day in prayer and reflection.
