Makkah— Saudi Arabia has officially declared Haj 1446 AH / 2025 a resounding success as millions of pilgrims began performing the farewell tawaf (Tawaf al-Wida) at the Grand Mosque in Makkah. The final ritual marks the culmination of the sacred journey that brought together over 1.67 million pilgrims from across the globe.
On Sunday and Monday (June 8 and 9), the Grand Mosque witnessed a massive influx of worshippers circling the Holy Kaaba, many holding colorful umbrellas under the blazing sun. According to the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque, the mosque recorded a remarkable operational capacity of over 107,000 circumambulations per hour, reflecting the efficiency of the Haj management.
The farewell tawaf follows the completion of the stoning of the devil (rami al-jamarat) at Mina, a ritual that spans three days. While a large portion—estimated at 80%—of pilgrims began their early departure after the stoning, others are remaining in Mina to complete the extended ritual over two more days.
In a statement to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Governor of the Makkah Region and Vice Chairman of the Permanent Committee for Haj and Umrah, praised the smooth conduct of Haj 2025. He lauded the efforts of all agencies involved, highlighting that the pilgrimage was carried out in an atmosphere of peace, safety, and ease, by the grace of Allah.
“The pilgrims were the best partners in achieving this success,” Prince Saud remarked, applauding their discipline and cooperation.
He also urged officials to begin immediate preparations for Haj 2026 to further enhance services and operational readiness.
Arabic news channel Al-Ekhbariya, while sharing clips from the Grand Mosque, called it a “majestic scene” and noted the emotional and spiritual aura as the guests of Allah performed the final rites of their journey.
After the farewell tawaf, many pilgrims are heading to Madinah to visit the Prophet’s Mosque and pay respects at significant Islamic landmarks.
According to data from the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT), the total number of pilgrims for Haj 2025 stood at 1,673,230, which included both domestic and international pilgrims.
Muslims around the world have appreciated Saudi Arabia’s tireless efforts and technological advancements in facilitating a safe and spiritually fulfilling Haj experience.
