Saudi authorities announced Saturday that more than 1.5 million international pilgrims have reached the Kingdom for Hajj 2026, already surpassing last year’s total foreign arrivals despite significant travel disruptions caused by the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran.

Lt. Gen. Saleh Al-Murabba, Director of Hajj Security Forces, confirmed at a press conference that the number of

arriving from outside the Kingdom has reached 1,518,153. Of these, 1,457,514 arrived by air, 45,141 via land crossings, and 6,497 by sea.

With two days remaining before the official start of Hajj rituals on Monday, May 25, officials expect the final tally to rise further. The most spiritually significant day — the Day of Arafat — falls on Tuesday, May 26.

This year’s early figures exceed 2025’s total of 1,506,576 international pilgrims (out of 1,673,320 total participants), demonstrating strong global turnout even amid geopolitical challenges.

The US-Israeli conflict with Iran, which began in late February 2026, initially caused major disruptions including airspace closures, flight cancellations, and rising jet fuel costs. However, Gulf carriers such as Emirates, Etihad, Qatar Airways, and Gulf Air have since restored near-normal operations, helping facilitate the strong pilgrim influx, particularly from East Asia, South Asia, and Africa.

Saudi officials have worked diligently to insulate the Hajj season from regional tensions. Enhanced security measures are visible across Mecca and Medina, including large-scale deployments of security forces, armored vehicles, and aerial patrols. Authorities have also intensified enforcement of the “No Hajj Without a Permit” policy, with strict biometric checks and heavy penalties for unauthorized entry.

More than one million pilgrims are already in Mecca, creating a deeply spiritual environment as worshippers in white ihram garments fill the Grand Mosque. Saudi Arabia has deployed advanced technologies, including high-speed rail links and improved cooling systems, to manage crowds and ensure comfort during the intense summer heat.

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah continues to emphasize safety, with comprehensive medical, transport, and accommodation services in place. Over 3 million airline seats were allocated this season to support smooth operations.

This record-breaking early arrival highlights the enduring global significance of Hajj as one of the world’s largest annual religious gatherings, drawing Muslims from every corner of the globe in a powerful display of unity and faith despite external pressures. (ILKHA)