JEDDAH — Minister of Hajj and Umrah Tawfiq Al-Rabiah announced that Saudi Arabia has concluded contracts for the performance of Hajj by more than one million pilgrims, six months before the annual pilgrimage. "This is an unprecedented number and historic achievement," the minister said in a press briefing on Wednesday, the concluding day of the 5th Hajj Conference and Exhibition held at Jeddah Superdome. Al-Rabiah said the ministry has signed Hajj contracts with 77 countries. In addition to this, the Saudi private sector has signed more than 3,000 contracts with Hajj operators from countries around the world for the Hajj of 2026. "The four-day Hajj Conference and Exhibition welcomed more than 160,000 visitors—a 33% increase from last year—with participation from 150 countries," he said while highlighting major features that contributed to the success of this year's Hajj conference. "This growing interest reflects the international community's recognition of the Kingdom's leadership in organizing and managing Hajj operations with excellence and innovation," the minister said. Al-Rabiah praised the Crown Prince's constant concern and support for everything that contributes to the safety and service of pilgrims. He emphasized that this unwavering leadership continues to drive the Kingdom's efforts to enhance the pilgrimage experience. The minister said approximately 300 entities related to Hajj services from both the public and private sectors participated in the exhibition to disseminate information about the wide variety of services provided by them to the pilgrims. One notable participant for this year's event was the King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives (Darah). "This participation reflects the Foundation's ongoing commitment to preserving and documenting the rich history of Hajj and its deep connection to the Kingdom's Islamic heritage," Al-Rabiah noted. The minister expressed his gratitude to all who contributed to the conference's success, calling it "a remarkable achievement by all standards." He also announced that the Umrah and Visit Forum will be held in Madinah in January 2026, while adding that this is part of continuing the Kingdom's efforts to enhance and expand services for pilgrims and visitors alike. "This year's Hajj conference aimed to ensure a safe and seamless journey for pilgrims—from their departure to return home after visiting the holy sites," the minister added.
