Türkiye has unveiled a strengthened approach to Hajj services for 2025, combining spiritual wisdom with practical support to enhance the sacred pilgrimage for nearly 85,000 citizens. At a press briefing in Mecca, Diyanet President Ali Erbaş underscored the significance of Hajj as a deeply transformative journey that unites Muslims through faith, discipline, and moral values.
Erbaş described Mecca as a divine city where the Quran was first revealed and called Hajj a symbol of Islamic brotherhood that fosters unity across diverse cultures and regions. He emphasized the pilgrimage’s educational value, saying that rituals like tawaf, standing at Arafat, and stoning the devil are filled with spiritual lessons that cultivate good character, awareness, and purpose.
To support this profound experience, Türkiye has implemented comprehensive logistical and health systems. Over 2,700 trained personnel—including scholars, female guidance officers, and group leaders—are assisting pilgrims in every step. With an average age of 60 among pilgrims, special transport and health provisions have been prioritized, including air-conditioned tents in Arafat and a fully operational mobile hospital.
A significant part of the support also includes Türkiye’s organized proxy sacrifice program. This year, over 359,000 citizens entrusted their Eid al-Adha sacrifices to the Diyanet Foundation, a rise from last year’s numbers. The foundation also anticipates managing more than 750,000 proxy sacrifices globally, ensuring each is carried out in accordance with Islamic principles.
Looking ahead, Erbaş shared that Türkiye’s Hajj quota could increase, thanks to its disciplined and well-organized efforts—qualities that earned international recognition in 2024. He highlighted the rising participation of younger pilgrims due to early registration and concluded with hope that Türkiye will once again be honored for its exemplary organization.