More than 1.5 million Muslims began arriving in the tent city of Mina on Monday as the annual Haj pilgrimage commenced against the backdrop of ongoing uncertainty surrounding the war in the Middle East.
Pilgrims dressed in white robes travelled by bus and on foot to the sprawling camp after performing tawaf around the Kaaba at the Grand Mosque.
This year’s Haj comes as US President Donald Trump continues to send mixed messages regarding a possible agreement to prolong the fragile ceasefire with Iran and reopen the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.
The pilgrimage, which draws Muslims from around the world — including pilgrims from Iran — is taking place months after attacks targeted Saudi Arabia and several Gulf states.
Saudi authorities have sought to ensure that regional tensions do not overshadow the spiritual journey for worshippers, many of whom travelled thousands of miles to participate in one of the world’s largest annual religious gatherings.
Despite concerns over the conflict, Saudi officials said the number of international pilgrims attending this year’s Haj had surpassed 2025 figures.
As pilgrims prepared for the days of worship ahead, Saudi authorities also signalled heightened security measures.
A video released by the Saudi defence ministry showed advanced air defence systems deployed near Makkah.
“The air defence forces are responsible for protecting the skies over the holy sites and dealing with all aerial threats, ensuring the safety and peace of mind of the guests,” the ministry said in the post.
Many pilgrims voiced hopes for peace across the region.
“The war in Iran has affected the entire world. Nobody wants wars or harm to countries and peoples,” said Mohammed Chahada, an Egyptian pilgrim in his 50s, while leaving the Grand Mosque.
The Haj is also unfolding under intense summer heat, with temperatures expected to exceed 40°C throughout much of the week.
Still, the atmosphere among pilgrims remained joyful and emotional.
“I have wanted to perform the pilgrimage my entire life, for 40 or 50 years,” said Jreish Mohammed, a 68-year-old pilgrim from Morocco wearing traditional attire.
“And this year, my dream came true.”
