The General Authority for Statistics in Saudi Arabia has announced that this year’s total number of pilgrims for the 1446 AH lunar year reached an impressive 1,673,230 individuals. Among them, 1,506,576 pilgrims arrived from abroad through various entry points, while 166,654 pilgrims hailed from within the Kingdom, consisting of both Saudi citizens and residents.
In their statistical report for this year’s Hajj, the authority highlighted that the total number of male pilgrims amounted to 877,841, in contrast to 795,389 female pilgrims. This demographic breakdown illustrates the significant participation of both genders in this important religious event.
The authority provided insights regarding the means by which international pilgrims accessed the Kingdom. The majority, comprising 1,435,017 pilgrims, entered through air transport. A further 66,465 pilgrims utilized ground crossings, while 5,094 arrived via maritime routes. This detailed categorization underscores the diverse avenues through which pilgrims make their way to the sacred sites, reflecting a well-coordinated effort to facilitate their journey.
For the compilation of these statistics, the General Authority for Statistics relied predominantly on administrative records from the Ministry of Interior. This methodological approach ensures the delivery of high-accuracy and reliable data, adhering to standardized models that encompass a variety of essential factors. This practice has been in place for the past five years, reinforcing the consistency and accuracy of the data collected.
It is worth noting that the General Authority for Statistics serves as the sole official statistical reference for data and statistical information in Saudi Arabia. The agency is tasked with conducting statistical activities, overseeing technical aspects of the statistical sector, and executing comprehensive field surveys. Moreover, it engages in statistical research and analysis, ensuring the documentation and preservation of data that span all aspects of life in the Kingdom. This meticulous effort involves organizing, categorizing, and extracting statistical indicators that offer insights into various societal domains.
In light of this significant occasion, Dr. Fahd bin Abdullah Al-Dosari, President of the General Authority for Statistics, expressed heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to both King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud. He commended them for their unwavering support in providing a range of comfortable facilities for the guests of Allah, known as the guests of the Sacred House. He prayed for the success of all governmental entities in delivering exceptional services to those undertaking the pilgrimage, wishing that the pilgrims return safely to their loved ones and homelands.
The meticulous preparation and management surrounding the Hajj reflect the Kingdom’s commitment to ensuring that millions of pilgrims can perform their religious duties in an environment that is both safe and accommodating. As the pilgrimage continues to grow in scale and significance, the effective coordination among various departments showcases the country’s dedication to facilitating a seamless experience for everyone involved. Through rigorous statistical analysis and strategic planning, Saudi Arabia aims to enhance the operational effectiveness for future Hajj seasons, striving to provide even better services to pilgrims from all over the world.
In conclusion, the data released not only highlights the vast numbers involved in this year’s Hajj but also emphasizes the Kingdom’s ongoing commitment to excellence in service provision for its esteemed guests. The efforts made to ensure a positive pilgrimage experience are commendable, and the authority’s reliance on accurate and comprehensive data further fortifies the operational framework necessary for such large-scale gatherings. This year’s Hajj underscored the spirit of unity and devotion among Muslims as they gathered to partake in one of the most significant events in the Islamic calendar.
