Saudi Arabia Concludes Hajj 2026 with 1.7 Million Pilgrims

Saudi Arabia successfully concluded Hajj 2026 (1447 AH) with 1,707,301 pilgrims, according to the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT). Of these, 1,546,655 came from outside the Kingdom and 160,646 were domestic pilgrims (citizens and residents). The total was slightly higher than the 1,673,230 pilgrims recorded in 2025, but below the more than 1.83 million of 2024.

Smooth Operations Throughout

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah reported that this year’s Hajj saw seamless operations across all holy sites — Mina, Arafat, Muzdalifah, and the Grand Mosque in Makkah. Crowd management systems and digital services supported pilgrim safety and comfort throughout the Hajj days.

Smart Technologies Deployed

Pilgrims used the Nusuk app and Nusuk card for their Hajj permits, bookings and guidance. (An earlier version of this article said every pilgrim was given an NFC smart bracelet for the first time; we could not find an official source for that, so we have removed it.)

Climate Control Measures

With high summer temperatures, Saudi authorities deployed extensive climate control measures including:

Misting fans and air-conditioned tents in Mina and Arafat
Cooled pathways connecting key ritual sites
Free chilled water stations at regular intervals
Climate-controlled buses for transport between holy sites

Health and Safety

The Ministry of Health said the 1447 AH Hajj season ended with no disease outbreaks or public health threats among pilgrims. It reported more than 2.5 million health services delivered from the start of the season to 12 Dhul Hijjah, with hospital capacity of more than 20,000 beds, including more than 3,800 beds in the Holy Sites.

Indian Pilgrims

Around 1.75 lakh (175,000) Indian pilgrims performed Hajj this year under India’s quota of 175,025, making India one of the largest contingents. The Indian Hajj Mission operated dedicated help desks, medical facilities, and guidance services for Indian pilgrims in Makkah and Madinah.

Looking Ahead

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has already begun preparations for Hajj 2027, with plans to expand capacity further and enhance the digital experience for pilgrims worldwide.