Hajj Pilgrims Begin Early Departure from Mina After Completing Second Day of Tashreeq Rites
Mina, The Gulf Observer: The majority of Hajj pilgrims began their early departure from the tent city of Mina before sunset on Sunday, marking the end of their second day of Tashreeq by completing the ritual stoning at the three Jamarat, the symbolic pillars representing Satan.
Pilgrims who wished to leave Mina early were permitted to do so before sunset on the second day. Those remaining will stay one more night and perform the final stoning ritual on Monday, the third and concluding day of Tashreeq, officially ending the Hajj pilgrimage.
Following the symbolic stoning, thousands of departing pilgrims proceeded directly to the Grand Mosque in Makkah to perform Tawaf Al-Wida, or the Farewell Circumambulation around the Holy Kaaba — the final mandatory rite of Hajj. The sacred mosque saw a heavy influx of worshippers, many in a euphoric and spiritually fulfilled state, as they completed their once-in-a-lifetime journey of faith.
Streamlined Operations for a Smooth Departure
Saudi authorities have executed a comprehensive departure plan to manage the high volume of pilgrim movement and prevent congestion, particularly at the Jamarat Bridge and the Grand Mosque. The plan allowed for a two-day staggered departure schedule, ensuring safe and organized movement.
The Hajj Security Forces, in collaboration with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, confirmed full preparedness at the Grand Mosque, deploying advanced crowd control measures and logistical support to accommodate pilgrims performing their Farewell Tawaf.
Support services included:
- 400 electric carts and 10,000+ wheelchairs
- 210 smart gates to manage entry and exit
- Designated crowd movement pathways to facilitate orderly flow around the mataf and mosque courtyards
These measures were implemented in line with the directives of the Saudi leadership to enhance pilgrim experience and safety, reflecting the Kingdom’s ongoing commitment to improving Hajj services.
Technological Infrastructure Enhancing Crowd Management
At the heart of these efforts is the Monitoring and Control Center in Mina, operated by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. The center uses real-time monitoring systems, including crowd density analytics and smart bus tracking technologies, to ensure efficient traffic flow and rapid response to emergencies.
The center’s integrated operational model encompasses all facets of the Hajj journey — from transportation and group movement to aviation and border entry data — creating a comprehensive ecosystem that has notably reduced waiting times at air entry points to under 40 minutes.
By generating precise movement maps, the system aids in predicting peak crowd patterns and allows for strategic redirection of flows, thus minimizing congestion and ensuring a safe, secure, and serene Hajj experience for all pilgrims.
As the third day of Tashreeq approaches, the final group of pilgrims will complete their rites and depart Mina, concluding another successful and spiritually fulfilling Hajj season under Saudi Arabia’s meticulous planning and care.
