Record Number of Pilgrims Arrive in Mecca for Hajj Amid Ongoing Conflict
Despite Middle East war, foreign pilgrims flock to Mecca for hajj
Image: France 24
Despite ongoing conflict in the Middle East, over 1.5 million foreign pilgrims have arrived in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, for this year's hajj, surpassing last year's numbers. The influx continues despite travel disruptions caused by regional tensions, with expectations for further increases as the rituals begin.
- 01Over 1.5 million pilgrims have arrived in Saudi Arabia for the hajj, exceeding last year's international figures.
- 02The conflict in the Middle East, triggered by US and Israeli strikes on Iran, has led to air traffic disruptions and increased travel costs.
- 03Saleh Al-Murabba, commander of Saudi Arabia’s Hajj Passport Forces, reported 1,518,153 foreign pilgrims as of the latest count.
- 04Last year, the total number of pilgrims reached 1,673,320, including 1,506,576 from abroad.
- 05The hajj is a mandatory pilgrimage for Muslims who are physically and financially able to undertake it, representing one of the five pillars of Islam.
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In a remarkable display of resilience, over 1.5 million foreign pilgrims have arrived in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, to participate in this year's hajj, despite the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. This number has already surpassed the total of international visitors from the previous year. The conflict, which escalated following US and Israeli strikes on Iran, has resulted in significant air traffic disruptions and increased travel costs, yet pilgrims continue to make their way to the holy city. Saleh Al-Murabba, commander of Saudi Arabia’s Hajj Passport Forces, confirmed that 1,518,153 pilgrims have already arrived, with numbers expected to rise as the formal rituals begin on Monday. Last year, the total number of pilgrims was 1,673,320, of which 1,506,576 were from outside Saudi Arabia. The hajj is a vital religious duty for Muslims, emphasizing the importance of this pilgrimage even in challenging circumstances.
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The influx of pilgrims boosts the local economy, particularly in the hospitality and transportation sectors, despite the challenges posed by regional conflicts.
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