Egypt to Collect DNA Samples From Relatives of Missing Hajj Pilgrims

The Egyptian government has announced plans to retrieve DNA samples from relatives of Hajj pilgrims who went missing during the 2024 season. By doing so, the government hopes to provide closure to families who are still uncertain about the status of their missing relatives.

Citizens who are still unable to determine the status of their relatives have been encouraged to visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Around 680 Egyptian citizens succumbed to heat exhaustion during the 2024 Hajj season, with many more reported missing.

Following the massive loss of life, the Presidency established a task force in June to determine the causes that led to it. This task force subsequently revoked the licences of 16 tourism companies alleged to be involved in illegal pilgrimage arrangements.

The official number of Egyptian pilgrims on Hajj in 2024 reached 50,000 people.