Saudi Arabia has prevented 269,678 people without permits from entering Mecca for the annual Hajj pilgrimage, officials announced Sunday, as authorities intensify efforts to curb overcrowding and illegal participation. The crackdown comes amid rising concerns about safety and logistical strain, with 1.4 million pilgrims already in the holy city and more expected in the coming days.
At a press conference in Mecca, Lt. Gen. Mohammed Al-Omari warned, “The pilgrim is in our sight, and anyone who disobeys is in our hands.” Violators face fines up to $5,000, deportation, or residency revocation. Authorities have also penalized 23,000 Saudi residents for Hajj regulation breaches and revoked licenses of 400 Hajj companies facilitating unauthorized travel.
The Hajj, a mandatory once-in-a-lifetime journey for able-bodied Muslims, has faced challenges in recent years, including extreme heat and overcrowding. Saudi Arabia has introduced new measures this year, including drone surveillance for crowd control and fire monitoring.
Despite strict enforcement, demand for Hajj permits far exceeds availability, driving many to attempt the pilgrimage illegally. Officials attribute past fatalities—including stampedes and heat-related deaths—to unauthorized participants overwhelming infrastructure.
The government continues to emphasize compliance, urging pilgrims to secure permits to ensure safety and orderly rituals.