The first phase of the Hajj security plan for the year 1445 AH was a success
The Ministry of Interior's security spokesman, Brigadier General Talal bin Abdulmohsen bin Shalhoub, announced the successful completion of the first phase of the Hajj security plan for 1445 AH. This phase was carried out in an atmosphere of security and tranquility, thanks to comprehensive and continuous coordination among the various security and service agencies. The spokesman also noted the smooth flow of pilgrims to Mina for the Day of Tarwiyah, in preparation for their ascent to the sacred site of Arafat.
The Kingdom's historic efforts in securing the pilgrims
Over the decades, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has dedicated all its human and material resources to serving pilgrims. Crowd management has witnessed remarkable historical development, transitioning from traditional organization to the use of the latest global technologies. In this context, Ibn Shalhoub explained that pilgrims arrived in the Kingdom safely and securely through air, land, and sea ports, benefiting from the “Makkah Route” initiative, which was implemented in ten countries across seventeen international entry points. These achievements are thanks to God’s grace, the support and guidance of the wise leadership, and the direct supervision of the Minister of Interior, Chairman of the Supreme Hajj Committee.
Tightening control and apprehending violators
The security spokesperson emphasized the continued and rigorous enforcement of the "No Hajj Without a Permit" campaign, revealing the arrest of 231 individuals transporting unauthorized pilgrims and the dismantling of 246 fraudulent Hajj campaigns, with legal penalties applied to violators. He confirmed that field security indicators showed a significant decrease in the number of those violating Hajj regulations and instructions this year. This success is attributed to the high professional competence of security personnel and the advanced capabilities and technologies provided by the state, supported by artificial intelligence, which have contributed to tightening control over the entrances and routes leading to the Holy City of Mecca.
Strategic dimensions of the success of the Hajj security plan
The impact of the successful Hajj security plan extends far beyond the local level, encompassing crucial regional and international dimensions. Locally, meticulous organization and the prevention of unauthorized pilgrimages contribute to protecting the infrastructure and economy of the holy sites from chaotic overcrowding that could hinder service delivery and jeopardize the safety of authorized pilgrims. Regionally and internationally, the Kingdom's ability to manage millions of pilgrims within a limited geographical area and in record time reinforces its leading position in the Islamic world and provides a global model for managing large crowds and preventing crises, thus reassuring all nations about the safety of their citizens.
Continuation of field operations and deployment
Brigadier General Ibn Shalhoub explained that security sectors continue their duties throughout the various stages of the pilgrims' movement between the holy sites, starting with the ascent to Arafat, then the departure to Muzdalifah, and the pilgrims' return to perform Tawaf al-Ifadah, the stoning of Jamarat al-Aqaba, and their stay in Mina until the end of the days of Tashreeq. He emphasized the implementation of precise plans for managing and organizing crowds within the Grand Mosque, the Jamarat facility, and the train stations of the Holy Sites. In closing, he thanked citizens and residents for their adherence to the instructions, addressing a message to the pilgrims: “You are in a country that is honored to serve you, and your safety and security are its top priorities.”.
