The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) has released official figures for the total number of pilgrims performing Hajj this year, with a total of 1,833,164 pilgrims from within the Kingdom and abroad. These include 1,611,310 foreign pilgrims and 221,854 domestic pilgrims, both citizens and expatriates. The majority of pilgrims, over 1.5 million, arrived by air, with 1,546,345 foreign pilgrims landing via Saudi airports.
The breakdown of pilgrims according to gender shows 958,137 male pilgrims and 875,027 female pilgrims. The distribution of pilgrims from different regions is also detailed, with 22.3 percent from Arab countries, 63.3 percent from Asian countries, 11.3 percent from African countries, and 3.2 percent from European, American, Australian, and other unclassified countries. The data is based on administrative records and is presented in the authority’s Hajj Statistics Bulletin.
GASTAT is the official statistical authority in Saudi Arabia and is responsible for gathering and analyzing statistical data related to various aspects of the country, including the Hajj pilgrimage. The authority conducts field surveys, statistical studies, and research, and supervises the statistical sector to ensure accurate and reliable data. The statistics issued for the 2024 Hajj season provide valuable insights into the demographics and transportation methods of pilgrims.
With over 1.8 million pilgrims participating in this year’s Hajj, Saudi Arabia continues to host one of the largest annual religious gatherings in the world. The pilgrimage is a significant event for Muslims around the globe, with millions of believers traveling to Mecca to perform the rituals that are an essential part of their faith. The diversity of pilgrims from different regions reflects the global nature of Islam and the unity of the Muslim community during this sacred journey.
The data released by GASTAT not only provides valuable information about the demographics of this year’s Hajj pilgrims but also highlights the logistical challenges involved in organizing such a massive event. The authority’s efforts to collect and analyze statistical data ensure that accurate and reliable information is available to policymakers, researchers, and the public. The Hajj Statistics Bulletin serves as a comprehensive resource for understanding the dynamics of the pilgrimage and its impact on Saudi Arabia and the global Muslim community.
As Saudi Arabia continues to invest in infrastructure and services to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims, the data collected by GASTAT will play a crucial role in informing future policies and decisions related to the Hajj. By tracking trends in pilgrim demographics, transportation methods, and other key factors, the authority can help improve the overall experience for believers and ensure the safety and well-being of all participants. The statistics released for the 2024 Hajj season provide a snapshot of the pilgrimage’s scale and significance, underscoring its importance as a pillar of the Islamic faith.
