The Director of Saudi Public Security and Chairman of the Hajj Security Committee, Lieutenant General Mohammed Al-Bassami, has disclosed that security personnel have intercepted and turned back more than 205,000 individuals who attempted to enter the holy sites without valid Hajj permits.
Speaking during a press briefing on the ongoing Hajj security operations, Lt. Gen. Al-Bassami emphasized that the measure was in strict compliance with Saudi Arabia’s regulations to ensure safety, orderliness, and efficient crowd control during the pilgrimage.
He further stated that 110,000 vehicles without the necessary authorization were also prevented from entering Makkah and other holy locations such as Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah. The enforcement operations are being carried out in collaboration with various security and civil agencies as part of a broader effort to maintain the sanctity and logistical integrity of Hajj 1446AH/2025.
Al-Bassami reiterated that penalties for violations remain in force, warning that anyone caught breaching the regulations, including unauthorized pilgrims, transporters, and accommodation providers, will face legal consequences.
The security clampdown is aligned with Saudi Arabia’s comprehensive plan to manage the influx of over two million pilgrims, with the goal of providing a safe, secure, and spiritually uplifting experience.