Saudi Arabia Starts Big Hajj Security Plan as Pilgrims Reach 1.5 Million

Makkah: Saudi Arabia has started a large security operation for Hajj 2026 as more than 1.5 million pilgrims from different countries arrive for the holy journey.

Saudi officials said Hajj is only for worship and prayer. They warned that illegal activities and fake Hajj campaigns will not be allowed.

The announcement came during a meeting at the Hajj Security Operations Center in Makkah.

Lieutenant General Mohammed Al-Bassami said all security teams are ready to help pilgrims stay safe and complete Hajj smoothly.

Saudi Arabia is using smart cameras, AI technology and security teams to control crowds and stop people without permits from entering Makkah.

Officials said they closed more than 217 fake Hajj campaigns.

They also stopped 7,733 people who broke residency and border rules.

More than 366,000 people without Hajj permits were blocked from entering Makkah through security checkpoints.

Thousands of vehicles carrying violators were also stopped.

Saudi officials said violations have dropped compared to last year, showing better control during the Hajj season.

Security teams have been deployed at important places including Namirah Mosque, Jabal Al Rahmah and Jamarat to manage crowds and keep pilgrims safe.

Civil Defense officials said modern technology and AI are helping improve emergency response and safety monitoring.

Meanwhile, Saudi Passports Department confirmed that more than 1.518 million pilgrims from abroad had arrived in the Kingdom by Friday afternoon.