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Miami Herald
an hour ago
- Miami Herald
Saudi Arabia Bans Over 250,000 People From Mecca During Hajj Pilgrimage
Saudi Arabia has barred more than 269,000 people without permits for the annual Hajj pilgrimage from entering Mecca this week, authorities said, as the world's largest annual gathering of people has officially begun. Saudi Arabia has reinforced strict bans for this year's pilgrimage season in efforts to curb overcrowding in Mecca, which has been the scene of deadly crushes during Hajj in the past. In May, the kingdom clamped down on visa numbers, banning certain types of visas for travelers from 14 countries, mostly Arab nations. Saudi officials said 1.5 million foreign pilgrims are taking part in the Mecca pilgrimage, in addition to an unspecified number of local Muslims. The Ministry of Interior warned against entering Mecca without a specific Hajj permit using an Arabic hashtag on social media which translates into "No Hajj without permit." Violators face a fine up to SAR 20,000 (roughly $5,300), the ministry said Wednesday on its X account. Months ago, the government warned Mecca visitors of staying beyond authorized deadlines. Last year, authorities barred nearly 300,000 unregistered pilgrims. Overcrowding is a significant issue during Hajj with past incidents involving hundreds of deaths by stampedes or due to excessive heat. The kingdom has also banned children under 12 from attending, according to The Associated Press. The government has spent billions of dollars upgrading and expanding Hajj infrastructure and crowd control technology as a counter measure. Foreign pilgrims may spend thousands of dollars trying to complete the Hajj so being unable to do so is a major setback. Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and followers are expected to make a pilgrimage if they can, but those who are unable to do so are religiously exempt. Director-general of Public Security, Lieutenant General Mohammed bin Abdullah Al-Bassami, said on Sunday: "More than 269,678 residents were asked to return from the entrances of Mecca because they did not have permits for Hajj." Colonel Talal bin Shalhoub, Saudi Arabia's Interior Ministry spokesperson for Hajj operations, told a press conference in Arabic: "Those who facilitate the transport of pilgrims without permits will face penalties, including up to six months in prison and a fine up to 50,000 SAR, confiscation of the used vehicle, deportation and a ban from entering the country." Today, pilgrims are performing the act of standing at Mount Arafat-the most essential element of Hajj-as Muslims around the world who are not performing Hajj commonly observe a voluntary fast. Related Articles Images Show U.S. Patriot Missiles Deployed for Muslim Hajj PilgrimageImages Show Power Plant Nears Completion at World's Biggest Construction SiteIsrael Fears Arms Race in Fight to Remain Middle East's Only Nuclear PowerTrump Business Booms Abroad Amid Ethics Questions 2025 NEWSWEEK DIGITAL LLC.
Newsweek
7 hours ago
- Newsweek
Saudi Arabia Bans Over 250,000 People From Mecca During Hajj Pilgrimage
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Saudi Arabia has barred more than 269,000 people without permits for the annual Hajj pilgrimage from entering Mecca this week, authorities said, as the world's largest annual gathering of people has officially begun. Why It Matters Saudi Arabia has reinforced strict bans for this year's pilgrimage season in efforts to curb overcrowding in Mecca, which has been the scene of deadly crushes during Hajj in the past. In May, the kingdom clamped down on visa numbers, banning certain types of visas for travelers from 14 countries, mostly Arab nations. Muslim pilgrims gather on top of the rocky hill known as the Mountain of Mercy, on the Plain of Arafat, during the annual Hajj pilgrimage near the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia, Thursday, June... Muslim pilgrims gather on top of the rocky hill known as the Mountain of Mercy, on the Plain of Arafat, during the annual Hajj pilgrimage near the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia, Thursday, June 5, 2025. More Amr Nabil/AP Photo What To Know Saudi officials said 1.5 million foreign pilgrims are taking part in the Mecca pilgrimage, in addition to an unspecified number of local Muslims. The Ministry of Interior warned against entering Mecca without a specific Hajj permit using an Arabic hashtag on social media which translates into "No Hajj without permit." Violators face a fine up to SAR 20,000 (roughly $5,300), the ministry said Wednesday on its X account. Months ago, the government warned Mecca visitors of staying beyond authorized deadlines. Last year, authorities barred nearly 300,000 unregistered pilgrims. Overcrowding is a significant issue during Hajj with past incidents involving hundreds of deaths by stampedes or due to excessive heat. The kingdom has also banned children under 12 from attending, according to The Associated Press. The government has spent billions of dollars upgrading and expanding Hajj infrastructure and crowd control technology as a counter measure. Foreign pilgrims may spend thousands of dollars trying to complete the Hajj so being unable to do so is a major setback. Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and followers are expected to make a pilgrimage if they can, but those who are unable to do so are religiously exempt. What People Are Saying Director-general of Public Security, Lieutenant General Mohammed bin Abdullah Al-Bassami, said on Sunday: "More than 269,678 residents were asked to return from the entrances of Mecca because they did not have permits for Hajj." Colonel Talal bin Shalhoub, Saudi Arabia's Interior Ministry spokesperson for Hajj operations, told a press conference in Arabic: "Those who facilitate the transport of pilgrims without permits will face penalties, including up to six months in prison and a fine up to 50,000 SAR, confiscation of the used vehicle, deportation and a ban from entering the country." What Happens Next Today, pilgrims are performing the act of standing at Mount Arafat—the most essential element of Hajj—as Muslims around the world who are not performing Hajj commonly observe a voluntary fast.
Leaders
4 days ago
- Politics
- Leaders
Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud Sponsors Annual Ceremony for Forces Participating in Hajj Season
Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz, Minister of Interior and Chairman of the Supreme Hajj Committee, reviewed the readiness of the Hajj security forces to carry out their field duties in ensuring the safety and security of the pilgrims. This came during his patronage of the annual ceremony organized by the forces participating in this year's Hajj season, 1446. In a speech delivered during the event, the Director of Public Security and Chairman of the Hajj Security Committee, Lieutenant General Mohammed bin Abdullah Al-Bassami, affirmed that the wise leadership has mobilized all capabilities to serve the pilgrimage and care for the pilgrims, making it one of its highest priorities. He also noted that these great efforts have produced exemplary outcomes in managing human crowds, coordination, planning, and integration among the various sectors, thereby ensuring the intended goals and allowing the guests of God to enjoy the highest levels of safety and security. His Excellency stressed that the Hajj security forces are at the highest levels of readiness and preparedness, and are capable of dealing firmly and effectively with anything that may disrupt the security of the pilgrims or interfere with their performance of the rituals, thereby ensuring a secure environment for them to fulfill their religious duties. The ceremony included live field simulations reflecting various security scenarios, as well as a display of advanced security vehicles and equipment, including security aviation and specialized vehicles used during the Hajj season. Hajj and Umrah Attending the ceremony were Prince Salman bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz, Governor of the Madinah Region and Chairman of the Permanent Committee for Hajj and Umrah in the Madinah Region; Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Governor of the Makkah Region; Prince Dr. Abdulaziz bin Mohammed bin Ayyaf, Acting Deputy Minister of Interior; Prince Dr. Bandar bin Abdullah bin Mashari, Assistant Minister of Interior for Technical Affairs; Prince Dr. Faisal bin Mohammed bin Saad, Advisor to the Governor of the Makkah Region and General Supervisor of the Governorate's Agency; as well as ministers who are members of the Supreme Hajj Committee, leaders of security and military sectors, and several senior officials. Related Topics: Saudi Interior Min.: Tourism Companies Deceive Pilgrims, Encourage Hajj Violations Riyadh Global Health Exhibition to Bring Together Int'nal Healthcare Experts Intensive Preparations for Smooth, Safe Hajj Season: Mecca Deputy Governor New Chapter Unfolded: Saudi Arabia Launches Electronic Intensive Care Unit Short link : Post Views: 27
Leaders
26-02-2025
- Leaders
Public Security Director: Enhancing Ramadan Crowd Management with AI-Driven Efficiency
Lieutenant General Mohammed bin Abdullah Al-Bassami, Director of Public Security, announced the approval of the 1446 AH Umrah security plan by Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif, Minister of Interior. The plan integrates security, traffic management, crowd control, humanitarian services, and support for participating entities. This year's plan prioritizes field reports, statistics, and streamlined operational protocols to align with current seasonal demands. Authorities will strategically deploy human and mechanical resources to ensure seamless pilgrimage rituals. Al-Bassami emphasized coordination with partners to deliver exceptional services to pilgrims. Public Transport Hubs to Ease Congestion The plan activates public transport stations around the Grand Mosque, Third Ring Road, and Makkah's entry points. These hubs aim to distribute high-density crowds, particularly during Ramadan's first days and peak last ten nights. Historical data shows congestion escalates by the 20th of Ramadan, reaching its zenith in the final week. The Grand Mosque's ground floor and rooftop will prioritize pilgrims for Tawaf (circumambulation), coordinated with the General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques. Designated gates—King Fahd, King Abdulaziz, Umrah, Salam, Fath, and Nadwah—will link to staircases for rooftop access. Al-Bassami confirmed upgrades to northern platforms and expanded capacity in the Third Saudi Expansion and external plazas. These areas will accommodate worshippers while maintaining full service accessibility. Traffic Flow and Post-Umrah Crowd Management The plan balances traffic across zones, opening the Al-Shamiyah corridor near the Third Expansion to ease southern plaza pressure. Post-Umrah, crowds will redirect via the Beni Sheba Bridge to western areas like Ibrahim Al-Khalil Street or Jabal Al-Ka'bah, a strategy proven effective in prior years. Authorities will leverage AI and real-time surveillance via the Command-and-Control Center to address emerging issues. Al-Bassami praised Mecca's residents, expatriates, and visitors for their cooperation with security personnel. A dedicated strategy for Ramadan's last ten days will reinforce earlier measures, optimize successes, and address challenges to ensure unobstructed pathways. Previous seasons saw prayer rows extending to the Second Ring Road. This year, pilgrim routes from the Second Ring Road to the Grand Mosque's courtyard will remain open to prevent bottlenecks. Short link : Post Views: 1
