Nearly 2 Million Pilgrims Enter Final Stages of Hajj with Ritual Stoning at Mina
Nearly two million Muslim pilgrims began the final phase of the Hajj pilgrimage on Saturday by performing the symbolic stoning of the devil at Mina. The sacred ritual marks one of the final rites of the pilgrimage before worshippers return to the Grand Mosque in Mecca for the farewell circumambulation, known as Tawaf al-Wada.
According to local Saudi media reports monitored by Anadolu Agency, early groups of pilgrims made their way to the Jamarat complex in Mina at dawn, where they participated in the stoning ritual, which symbolizes the rejection of evil.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Saudi Ministry of Interior emphasized the importance of crowd control and safety, urging pilgrims to adhere to designated pathways to and from the Jamarat complex to ensure smooth movement and avoid congestion.
The Saudi General Authority for Statistics confirmed that the total number of pilgrims performing Hajj this year — 1446 according to the Islamic calendar — reached 1,673,230. Of those, 1,506,576 arrived from abroad, while 166,654 were domestic pilgrims, including Saudi citizens and residents.
This year's turnout mirrors the growing global enthusiasm for the spiritual journey, following last year's figures, where over 1.8 million pilgrims from 200 nations participated in the sacred rites.
With meticulous planning, expansive infrastructure, and coordinated efforts by Saudi authorities, the Kingdom continues to deliver a seamless and spiritually enriching Hajj experience, reinforcing its commitment to hosting the Guests of Allah with unwavering dedication.
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