Thousands of Palestinians in Gaza will be unable to perform this year’s Hajj pilgrimage as the humanitarian crisis and border restrictions continue to prevent travel to Saudi Arabia.
The annual pilgrimage to Makkah is one of the five pillars of Islam and is obligatory for Muslims who are physically and financially able to undertake it at least once in their lifetime. However, many Gazans who had hoped to participate in the 2026 Hajj season have reportedly lost the opportunity due to the ongoing conflict and restrictions on movement.
Families in Gaza are also facing difficulties preparing for Eid al-Adha, the Islamic festival marked by prayers, charity, and animal sacrifice. Reports indicate that livestock shortages and restrictions on imports have made it extremely difficult for residents to obtain animals traditionally used for the celebration.
Humanitarian agencies continue to express concern over worsening living conditions in Gaza, where shortages of food, medicine, and essential supplies persist. The inability of many Muslims in Gaza to perform Hajj this year has added emotional and spiritual hardship ahead of one of Islam’s most significant religious periods.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia continues preparations to host millions of pilgrims arriving from around the world for the 2026 Hajj exercise.
