Saudi Arabia tightens Hajj season management with an advanced security and technology system and stricter permit enforcement

Saudi authorities have intensified their security and organizational measures as the Hajj season approaches, under a plan aimed at ensuring pilgrims’ safety, regulating crowd movement, and preventing the performance of rituals without official permits.

The entrances to the Grand Mosque and the stations of the holy sites train have seen a broad security deployment, alongside the use of the smart “Nusuk” card and automated scanning systems to verify permits for entry into the holy sites, as part of efforts to strengthen oversight and regulate human flow.

The relevant authorities have also relied on artificial intelligence technologies and digital solutions to manage crowds, analyze human movement, and speed up verification procedures, raising the efficiency of organization and enhancing emergency response.

Authorities have also decided to restrict entry to the Mataf courtyard to Umrah performers and pilgrims wearing ihram garments, with the aim of reducing congestion and facilitating the performance of rituals more smoothly.

In a related context, the awareness campaign under the slogan “No Hajj without a permit” stressed the importance of complying with approved regulations, considering them an essential part of the security and organizational measures to ensure a successful season.

Authorities have also imposed fines of up to 100,000 Saudi riyals on anyone who facilitates or participates in enabling violators to perform Hajj without a permit, including through issuing visas, providing accommodation, or concealment. In addition, fines of up to 20,000 riyals have been imposed on holders of visit visas who attempt to enter Mecca and the holy sites or remain there in violation of instructions.

According to the authorities, these measures are part of a comprehensive system based on smart monitoring and strict regulation to ensure the security and safety of the Guests of الرحمن during the Hajj season.