Saudi Arabia has recorded a major influx of pilgrims ahead of this year’s Hajj, with more than 1.5 million Muslims arriving from outside the kingdom despite recent security concerns and travel disruptions triggered by tensions in the Middle East.
Saudi authorities disclosed that 1,518,153 international pilgrims had already entered the country as preparations intensified for the annual Islamic pilgrimage scheduled to begin formally on Monday.
The figure has already surpassed the number of foreign pilgrims recorded at the same stage last year and is expected to increase further as arrivals continue over the weekend.
The impressive turnout comes against the backdrop of regional instability following military exchanges involving the United States, Israel and Iran earlier in the year.
The conflict led to temporary airspace closures, flight cancellations and higher travel costs across the Gulf region, creating uncertainty for intending pilgrims.
However, major airlines in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Bahrain gradually restored operations, helping thousands of worshippers reach Saudi Arabia in time for the sacred rites.
While the successful movement of pilgrims demonstrates the resilience of global Islamic travel networks, analysts note that regional conflicts continue to expose vulnerabilities in air transport and security planning.
Last year’s Hajj attracted over 1.67 million pilgrims, including more than 1.5 million from outside Saudi Arabia. The pilgrimage remains one of Islam’s most significant religious obligations.
