Mina, Saudi Arabia – In a solemn display of faith, pilgrims flocked to Mina at dawn on Wednesday, the first day of Eid al-Adha, to perform the stoning of the Jamarat al-Aqaba. This followed their completion of the standing at Arafat and their overnight stay in Muzdalifah, amidst an atmosphere of tranquility and devotion.
Highly smooth flow
The Jamarat facility witnessed a massive influx of pilgrims. The movement of the crowds proceeded smoothly thanks to the strategic plans implemented by the relevant authorities.
All service sectors mobilized their human and technological resources to ensure the safety of the pilgrims. Ambulance and medical teams were deployed throughout the area. Guidance and counseling teams assisted in organizing the flow of pilgrims and preventing overcrowding. Furthermore, comprehensive cleaning operations were implemented, and the highest quality services were provided to guarantee a safe and comfortable environment for the pilgrims as they performed their rituals.
Hajj figures and statistics
In an official statement, the General Authority for Statistics in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia announced the total number of pilgrims this year, which reached 1,707,301. These numbers were distributed as follows: Pilgrims from outside the Kingdom: 1,546,655; Domestic pilgrims: 160,646 citizens and residents. The statistics indicated a balanced gender distribution among the pilgrims, with 893,396 males and 813,905 females. This reflects the meticulous organization of crowd management.
intelligent transportation system
The shuttle bus system and the Holy Sites Metro contributed to a qualitative leap in the Hajj experience this year, as the trains operated according to flexible schedules. This system was integrated with precise traffic plans, resulting in a record reduction in travel time between the holy sites. This integration between the Holy Sites Metro and traffic management directly contributed to the smooth and easy movement of pilgrims from Muzdalifah to Mina.
Completing the rituals
After stoning the Jamarat al-Aqaba, the pilgrims continue performing the remaining rituals of Eid al-Adha, which include offering the sacrificial animal, shaving or trimming their hair, and then proceeding to Mecca to perform Tawaf al-Ifadah and Sa’i between Safa and Marwa.
Intensive Saudi efforts continue at all locations to ensure the smooth flow of crowds during the days of Tashreeq. The Kingdom has dedicated all its resources to facilitating this spiritual journey, committed to providing the best possible services to the pilgrims. The pilgrims have expressed their appreciation for the meticulous organization they have experienced at every step of their blessed pilgrimage.
