860,000 Pilgrims Arrive; Haramain Train Capacity hits 72,000 Passengers Per Hour; Imams for Friday Sermon Announced

MAKKAH MUKARRAMAH, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 14th May, 2026) As the Hajj season reaches its peak, the influx of pilgrims from around the globe continues at a rapid pace, with over 860,000 pilgrims having arrived in the Kingdom so far.

According to Saudi media reports, the vast majority, more than 820,000 pilgrims, entered through air entry points, while over 35,000 arrived via land routes. Furthermore, the 'Makkah Route Initiative' has successfully facilitated the entry of more than 240,000 pilgrims.

According to the General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques and official media reports, the Khatibs for the upcoming Friday (28 Dhu al-Qi'dah 1447H) at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque have been designated. His Eminence Sheikh Professor Dr Faisal bin Jameel Ghazzawi will lead the Friday prayer and deliver the sermon at the Grand Mosque in Makkah.

<?php /*?> <?php */?>

Meanwhile, His Eminence Sheikh Dr Abdulbari bin Awad Al-Thubaiti will serve as the Imam and Khatib at the Prophet's Mosque in Madinah.

Minister of Information Salman Al-Dosari stated that the Ministry of Islamic Affairs has finalized its preparations to host more than 2,500 special guests. This delegation includes the families of martyrs and prominent scholars from over 100 countries.

To ensure seamless transportation between the holy cities, Haramain High-Speed Railway is operating at its maximum capacity. During this Hajj season, the train’s operational capacity has been scaled to accommodate up to 72,000 passengers per hour, providing a swift and comfortable transit experience for the guests of Allah.