This image shows a large group of Iraqi pilgrims participating in the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca.
Iraq wins top Hajj award for third consecutive year
NEWSROOM – Iraq’s official Hajj delegation has received the Diamond Tier of the Labaytum Award from Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, marking its third consecutive year winning the top honor for pilgrim services.
The award, which recognizes excellence in planning, healthcare, religious guidance, comfort, technology use, and overall organization, was shared this year by Organizations from Iraq, Turkey, and Malaysia for their performance during the 2025 pilgrimage season.
Iraq’s delegation, led by Sheikh Sami Al-Masoudi, was praised for its coordination and high-quality services. The mission previously earned the top award in both 2023 and 2024, underscoring Iraq’s leadership in Hajj organization.
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani congratulated the delegation in a message posted to X, formerly Twitter. “We congratulate the Iraqi Hajj mission, which has won first place for the third year in a row, as the best Hajj delegation among Islamic countries,” he said. “This achievement reflects positively on the reputation of Iraq and makes us proud. We reaffirm our commitment and support for all our institutions to provide the best services to Iraqis at home and abroad.”
Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, draws millions of Muslims annually to Mecca. Countries organize official delegations to provide logistics and spiritual support. Iraq’s consistent recognition comes as the country seeks to showcase institutional recovery after years of conflict.
Al-Masoudi, accepting the award, dedicated it to “the noble Iraqi people and the pilgrims of the House of God, who were the best ambassadors for their country.” He also thanked Saudi officials for their cooperation during the pilgrimage.
The Iraqi Hajj mission described the award as “a global acknowledgment of the exceptional efforts and distinguished organization provided by the Republic of Iraq in serving the pilgrims of the House of God.”
According to official data, 1,673,230 Muslims performed Hajj in 2025, including 1,506,576 international pilgrims and 166,654 domestic participants. Pilgrims came from 171 countries, with men and women almost equally represented.