Saudi Gazette report

ARAFAT — Prince Saud bin Mishaal, deputy emir of the Makkah Region and vice chairman of the Permanent Hajj and Umrah Committee, praised God for enabling 1.67 million pilgrims to complete the Day of Arafat without any recorded security or health incidents.

Speaking from Arafat on Thursday, the prince attributed the smooth movement and calm spiritual atmosphere to the Kingdom’s integrated service system and the leadership’s meticulous planning.

“In this great day, pilgrims gather in Arafat in devotion and reverence,” he said. “They were transported from Makkah and Mina to Arafat in record time, under flexible and efficient plans, with no security or epidemic incidents reported — all by the grace of God.”

Prince Saud expressed gratitude to Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman and Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman for mobilizing extensive material and human resources to serve the guests of God. He also acknowledged the direct supervision of Interior Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif, chairman of the Supreme Hajj Committee, in overseeing all operational plans.

“We are honored by God to serve His sacred sites,” the prince said, adding: “It is a great responsibility that we must carry out with sincerity.”

He called on all pilgrims to adhere to official instructions and thanked security forces, volunteers, and service personnel for presenting a positive image of the Kingdom. “Continue your noble mission,” he urged, “we are proud of you.”

The deputy emir asked God to accept their deeds and grant them a blessed Hajj.