ARAFAT: The Kingdom’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has revealed that this year’s Hajj attracted 1,845,045 worshippers from 150 countries.

The Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah, speaking at a press conference on Tuesday at the ministry’s camp at Arafat, said that the transportation of pilgrims from Mina had been a success and all had arrived at Arafat by 10 a.m.

He expressed his gratitude to the Kingdom’s leadership for helping to provide the best possible services to visitors, and the efforts of more than 40 government entities and other private sector companies.

He added: “These efforts have facilitated the pilgrims’ movement in peace, tranquility and good health.”

Al-Rabiah said the ministry had started its preparation for Hajj at the conclusion of last year’s event.

He added: “We have set up a task management center and its main job is to coordinate with all the participating agencies. That is why the pilgrims’ transportation process went smoothly and easily.

“We have also expanded the use of smart cards that help pilgrims to know which services are provided to them. It also assists them in reaching their camps and finding locations.”

Al-Rabiah said that technology was proving to be an invaluable tool for pilgrims during Hajj.

He added: “This advancement in technology can, for sure, help us to provide better services, and also enriches the experience of pilgrims.”