More than 1.5 million foreign pilgrims have arrived in Saudi Arabia to participate in the annual Hajj pilgrimage, one of the Five Pillars of Islam that every able-bodied Muslim is expected to perform at least once in their lifetime.

Saudi Arabia reported that this year's attendance represents an increase of 11,000 pilgrims compared to last year's numbers, indicating continued strong participation in the religious observance despite regional challenges.

The pilgrimage is taking place amid ongoing regional tensions, including concerns related to conflicts involving Iran and broader Middle Eastern instability. These geopolitical factors have created an atmosphere of uncertainty in the region.

The Hajj pilgrimage involves a series of religious rituals performed over several days in and around the holy city of Mecca. Pilgrims from around the world converge on Saudi Arabia during this period, making it one of the largest annual religious gatherings globally.

Saudi authorities manage the complex logistics of hosting millions of pilgrims, coordinating transportation, accommodation, and security arrangements to ensure the safe completion of the religious observances.