In a bid to ensure safety and manage crowds, Saudi Arabia has undertaken a significant operation to clear unregistered pilgrims from Makkah ahead of the Haj pilgrimage, slated to commence next week.
According to the official Saudi Press Agency (SPA), security forces have successfully removed hundreds of thousands of individuals who lacked proper registration for the annual pilgrimage. Among those turned away are 153,998 foreigners who arrived on tourist visas instead of the required Haj visas. Additionally, 171,587 individuals residing in Saudi Arabia but lacking residency in Makkah and Haj permits have been identified and addressed.
The Haj pilgrimage, which begins on June 14, is a sacred journey involving various rituals performed over several days in Makkah and its environs. Despite official channels for registration, many individuals have historically sought to undertake the pilgrimage through unofficial means, leading to overcrowding and safety concerns.
The tragedy of 2015, during which a stampede in Mina claimed the lives of up to 2,300 pilgrims during the “stoning the devil” ritual, remains a haunting memory. In response, Saudi authorities have intensified efforts to prevent similar incidents by cracking down on unauthorized pilgrims.
As of Saturday, over 1.3 million registered pilgrims have arrived for the Haj, signaling a substantial turnout despite the challenges posed by the ongoing pandemic and stringent registration requirements.
Saudi Arabia’s proactive measures underscore the nation’s commitment to ensuring the safety and sanctity of the Haj pilgrimage, a cornerstone of Islamic faith observed by millions worldwide.
