Sierra Leone has earned international commendation following its outstanding performance at the 5th Hajj Conference and Exhibition hosted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Affairs under the theme: “From Makkah to the World.” The prestigious four-day event, held at the Jeddah Superdome, brought together over 150 countries, featuring 143 dialogue sessions and workshops aimed at improving the global Hajj experience through innovation and collaboration.
The annual conference served as a vital platform for policymakers, scholars and Hajj administrators to discuss emerging trends in travel management, health and safety, hospitality and digital transformation across the pilgrimage sector.
During the contracting session, Sierra Leone was recognized for meeting the 2026 Hajj operational benchmarks, securing an allocation of 3,500 pilgrim slots for the upcoming season. The Adviser to the Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr. Badr Muhammad Al Solami, lauded Sierra Leone’s remarkable progress, applauding the leadership and coordination of Alhaji Murtada Sesay, Chairman of the Presidential Taskforce on Hajj and His Excellency Mohammed Barrie, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia.
Dr. Al Solami emphasized that Sierra Leone’s approach to Hajj organization exemplified excellence in planning, discipline and service delivery, urging other countries to emulate its model. His remarks drew wide applause from delegates and participants attending the high-level event.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, His Excellency Abdulfattah bin Suleiman Mashat, Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah, highlighted the achievements of the conference, including the unveiling of key initiatives aimed at improving coordination and efficiency in future Hajj operations. He also underscored the value of cross-sector collaboration in transportation, digital innovation, healthcare and hospitality management.
Sierra Leone’s recognition at this global forum underscores its unwavering commitment to improving the welfare and safety of its pilgrims while enhancing the credibility of its Hajj administration. The success also reflects the Government’s broader dedication to ensuring that Sierra Leone’s pilgrims experience a seamless and spiritually fulfilling journey to the Holy Land in 2026.
The 5th Hajj Conference and Exhibition reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s continued leadership in coordinating the world’s largest religious gathering while highlighting Sierra Leone’s rising reputation as a well-organized and respected Hajj-participating nation.
