Saudi Arabia has concluded Hajj 2025 with a profound display of care, innovation and organisation, welcoming over 1.5 million pilgrims from more than 150 nations.
Pilgrims arrived from around the world this year, supported by more than 7,000 international flights and a highly coordinated transport network of buses and trains. From their first steps in the Kingdom to the final rites in Mina and Arafat, their journeys were shaped by a quiet but powerful presence of planning: wearable smart cards, AI-powered guidance tools, and the fully integrated Nusuk platform, which offered more than 130 digital services across the pilgrimage. But beyond the technology, it was the human touches that stood out. Over 50,000 healthcare professionals staffed clinics and hospitals across the holy sites. Emergency services were expanded by 60 percent compared to the previous year, ensuring that care was never more than a moment away. Seven new hospitals were opened. More than 23,000 trees were planted to provide shade and cool the air in gathering points such as Masjid Namira and the pathways to Jamarat. In total, 300,000 square meters of shaded areas were added, turning ancient rituals into safer, more humane experiences in the face of intense summer heat. “Hajj 2025 was not just a logistical milestone–it was a glimpse of what the future of pilgrimage can and should be,” said Dr. Tawfig bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, Minister of Hajj and Umrah. “Serving over 1.6 million pilgrims with more than 130 digital services, expanding emergency care by 60 percent, and deploying over 20,000 buses and trains isn’t only about scale–it’s about reimagining the experience itself. Our goal is to make every journey to the holy sites not only safe, but seamless, inclusive, and spiritually enriching. This year was a step forward–and we are already building what comes next.” Hydrogen-powered buses and solar-cooled rest stops reflected a growing shift toward environmental sustainability, in line with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. As the Kingdom successfully concludes this year’s pilgrimage, preparations for Hajj 2026 are underway to ensure the pilgrim experience continues to be elevated under the guidance of the country’s leadership. All Hajj offices around the world have received initial plans for 2026, reflecting the sacred responsibility that Saudi Arabia shows in hosting Hajj.