Saudi Gazette report

MINA — Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior emphasized on Wednesday that the success of the Hajj season is a shared responsibility, calling on all parties to adhere strictly to official regulations.

Security and organizational preparations are in full effect to ensure smooth pilgrim movement between the holy sites.

In a press briefing, Ministry of Interior security spokesperson Col. Talal Al-Shalhoub confirmed that pilgrims had been safely transported to Mina to observe the Day of Tarwiyah, in accordance with the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

“We are utilizing advanced technologies across all sectors to ensure the safety and service of pilgrims. There are no challenges we cannot overcome,” Al-Shalhoub said.

“Our efforts stem from the deep-rooted values of Saudi society—our security personnel serve without seeking reward except from God.”

He underscored that the success of the Hajj pilgrimage is a collective responsibility, urging everyone to comply with safety instructions, adhere to scheduled group movement times, and respect approved transportation plans.

He also warned of legal consequences for unauthorized transport of pilgrims.

Al-Shalhoub revealed that authorities have issued 357 administrative decisions against 397 individuals involved in violating Hajj transport regulations.

He added that anyone issuing visitor visas to those attempting to perform Hajj without permits would also be held accountable.

Dr. Ghassan Al-Nouaimi, spokesperson for the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, reiterated Saudi Arabia’s welcome to the pilgrims, noting the arrival of over 1.5 million pilgrims from abroad.

He said more than 94,000 employees and 3,000 volunteers are serving the pilgrims this year.

Al-Nouaimi projected that over one million pilgrims would arrive in Mina by the end of Wednesday, the 8th of Dhul Hijjah.

He emphasized the importance of complying with the official pilgrim movement schedules and avoiding walking between the holy sites outside approved plans.

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has also launched an updated version of the “Nusuk” card with enhanced security features, linked to the Nusuk and Tawakkalna apps. Carrying the card is mandatory for all pilgrims during their movements in the holy sites and the Grand Mosque.

He also highlighted that 97% of service providers were found compliant following more than 62,000 inspection tours of pilgrim accommodations. In addition, the operational capacity of the Mataf (circumambulation area) has been raised to accommodate 107,000 pilgrims per hour.