The first phase of the Hajj security plan has been completed, and fake campaigns have been cracked down
In a new security and organizational achievement reflecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's utmost readiness, the Ministry of Interior's security spokesman, Brigadier General Talal bin Abdulmohsen bin Shalhoub, announced the successful completion of the first phase of Hajj security plan . This phase was characterized by security stability and complete coordination among the various security and service agencies, resulting in the smooth and easy movement of pilgrims to Mina to spend the Day of Tarwiyah, in preparation for their ascent to the sacred Mount Arafat.
Decisive security efforts: apprehending violators and cracking down on fake campaigns
As part of the wise leadership's commitment to providing a safe and healthy environment for pilgrims with valid permits, the Ministry of Interior has emphasized the continued strict enforcement of the "No Hajj Without a Permit" campaign. Field efforts have resulted in the apprehension of 231 individuals transporting unauthorized pilgrims, in addition to the dismantling of 246 fraudulent Hajj campaigns. The appropriate legal penalties have been applied to the violators. Brigadier General Bin Shalhoub confirmed that field security indicators have shown a significant decrease in the number of violators this year, a result attributed to the high professionalism of security personnel and the use of modern technologies supported by artificial intelligence to effectively control the entrances and routes leading to the Holy City of Mecca.
Makkah Route Initiative and Service Integration
The security spokesperson explained that pilgrims arrived in the Kingdom safely and securely through various air, land, and sea ports. Hundreds of thousands of them benefited from the Makkah Route Initiative, a significant step forward in facilitating the Hajj journey, which was implemented in 10 countries through 17 international entry points. These successes are attributed to God's grace, the support and guidance of the wise leadership, and the direct supervision of His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Nayef, Minister of Interior and Chairman of the Supreme Hajj Committee.
Historical context: A firm Saudi commitment to serving pilgrims
Historically, since the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by its founder, King Abdulaziz Al Saud (may God have mercy on him), the state has placed the safety and security of pilgrims at the forefront of its strategic priorities. Over the decades, crowd management and security plans for the holy sites have evolved into one of the most complex and successful logistical and security operations in the world. Managing millions of pilgrims in a limited geographical area and at the same time requires meticulous strategic planning, an area in which the Kingdom has proven its excellence year after year, transforming major challenges into success stories that inspire the entire world in the field of large-scale crowd management.
The regional and international importance and impact of a successful Hajj season
The success of the Hajj security plan extends far beyond the local dimension of maintaining security and order; its impact is profound regionally and internationally. The success of these plans sends a reassuring message to all Muslim countries that their pilgrims are in safe hands and receiving the best possible care. This success also enhances the Kingdom's soft power and highlights its exceptional capabilities in managing mass gatherings, perfectly aligned with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to elevate the quality of services provided to pilgrims and enrich their religious and cultural experience.
Continuation of field plans and a message to the pilgrims
Bin Shalhoub noted that security sectors continue to carry out their duties with utmost precision throughout the Hajj pilgrimage, from the ascent to Arafat, through the movement to Muzdalifah, and culminating in the Tawaf al-Ifadah and the stoning of the Jamarat during the days of Tashreeq. He expressed his gratitude to citizens, residents, and visitors for their cooperation with the "No Hajj Without a Permit" campaign and their adherence to the regulations, urging pilgrims to comply with the directives of the relevant authorities to ensure their safety. He concluded with a warm welcome to the pilgrims, saying, "You are in a nation honored to serve you, and your security and safety are its top priority.".
