The General Directorate of Passports (GDP) has announced that a total of 1,396,644 pilgrims from abroad have arrived in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia up to the end of Friday, 3rd of Dhul-Hijjah 1446 AH. This influx of international visitors was facilitated through various entry points, including air, land, and sea.
Breaking down the numbers, the GDP reported that approximately 1,326,323 pilgrims entered through air travel, while land crossings accounted for 65,228 pilgrims, and maritime routes saw 5,093 pilgrims arriving via sea. These figures reflect the significant participation of international travelers in this year’s pilgrimage season.
The General Directorate of Passports emphasized its commitment to ensuring a smooth and efficient arrival process for all pilgrims. To achieve this goal, the GDP has deployed comprehensive resources aimed at enhancing the experience for the guests of the Kingdom. One of the key strategies has been the implementation of advanced technologies at all international entry points—airports, border crossings, and seaports.
In addition to the technological upgrades, the GDP has also ensured that qualified personnel fluent in multiple languages are available to assist pilgrims. This strategic staffing is intended to address the diverse needs of international guests, helping them navigate the various procedures upon their arrival in the Kingdom.
The extensive preparations and the integration of modern technology are indicative of the Kingdom’s dedication to facilitating a welcoming environment for pilgrims during this sacred time. The passage for guests is not merely a matter of logistics; it is a reflection of the Kingdom’s efforts to honor the religious significance of the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages.
To sum up, the GDP’s data illustrates a robust influx of pilgrims from around the world and highlights the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to enhancing the pilgrimage experience through technological advancements and multilingual support. As the pilgrimage season continues, the GDP remains focused on providing exceptional service to ensure that the spiritual journey of every pilgrim is fulfilling and smooth, reflecting the deep-rooted traditions and hospitality of the Kingdom.
