HIRO Briefing on Post Hajj Operations 1446-2025, Preparations 1447-2026




Introduction 
The Hajj Intelligence Research Organization-HIRO latest international updates regarding Hajj 2025 include the following key points:

Conclusion of Hajj 2025 Operations: 

Saudia, Saudi Arabia's national airline, concluded its 2025 Hajj season operations with the final flight, SV5122, carrying 405 pilgrims from Madinah to Kertajati, Indonesia, on July 11, 2025. The airline transported over 808,000 pilgrims across more than 4,400 flights from 145 destinations worldwide, utilizing 147 aircraft. Enhanced digital platforms streamlined booking and check-in, while curated in-flight hospitality and multilingual entertainment guided pilgrims through rituals.

Technological Advancements: 
Saudi Arabia implemented advanced technologies for Hajj 2025, making it the most technologically advanced pilgrimage to date. Features included voice-activated translators in over 11 languages, smart bracelets for navigation, robotic guides, and drones for emergency aid. The pilgrimage saw 1.67 million international pilgrims from over 130 countries, with robust crowd management and international collaboration with 78 countries.

Registration for Hajj 2026 has begun in several countries:

  - India: The Haj Committee of India opened applications from July 7 to July 31, 2025, requiring a machine-readable Indian International Passport valid until at least December 31, 2026. Pilgrims are encouraged to use the HCoI website and mobile app for updates, with smart wristbands potentially issued for navigation and safety.

 - Pakistan: Approximately 250,000 Pakistanis registered for Hajj 2026 by the July 9, 2025, deadline, later extended to July 11. Pakistan’s quota for Hajj 2025 was 179,210, with an additional 10,000 slots secured. Applicants can now choose between government and private Hajj schemes.

Safety and Success: 

India’s Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju declared 2025 the most successful Hajj year for Indian pilgrims, with the lowest death toll compared to 200 deaths in 2024, attributed to improved coordination and safety measures.

Post-Hajj Developments

Saudi Arabia resumed e-visas and Umrah permits after Hajj 2025, with visa-on-arrival reinstated for eligible nationalities and warnings issued against overstaying.

Notable Incident: 

A Ghanaian woman from Accra, initially declared dead during Hajj 2025, returned home alive, causing shock after her family had held her funeral.

Sources:
Haj Committee of India (https://hajcommittee.gov.in) or Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.(https://x.com/501Awani/status
(https://www.zawya.com (https://travelandtourworld.com

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