A total of 40,000 military personnel and 30,000 police officers have been deployed for security
Makkah: (UrduPoint/Pakistan Point News-June 4th, 2025) The sacred rituals of Hajj 1446H began today, 8th Dhul-Hijjah, with the spiritually uplifting chants of Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik as millions of pilgrims, including those from Pakistan, proceeded toward Mina — home to the world’s largest tent city.
More than 2 million local and international pilgrims are expected to perform Hajj this year.
On the first day, the pilgrims will stay in Mina in worship, prayers, and seeking forgiveness. Tomorrow, 9th Dhul-Hijjah, they will head to the plains of Arafat for Waquf-e-Arafah, the most essential pillar of Hajj.
In Arafat, Imam of Kaaba Sheikh Saleh bin Abdullah bin Humaid will deliver the Hajj sermon at Masjid-e-Nimrah and lead the combined Zuhr and Asr prayers.
To ensure the health and safety of the pilgrims in Mina, Muzdalifah, and Arafat, the Saudi government has established field hospitals, dispensaries, and temporary clinics.
The Ministry of Health has also deployed eight air ambulances, while the Pakistan Hajj Mission has arranged medical facilities at designated stations for Pakistani pilgrims.
A total of 40,000 military personnel and 30,000 police officers have been deployed for security. Helicopters of the Royal Saudi Security Forces are conducting aerial surveillance over Makkah and the holy sites to maintain law and order.
This year, Saudi authorities have taken strict measures against illegal pilgrims.
Over 270,000 people have been stopped from entering Makkah, including those attempting Hajj without a valid permit. Legal action has been taken against violators.
The penalties for unauthorized pilgrims include fines ranging from 50,000 to 100,000 Saudi Riyals, imprisonment and deportation.
The Saudi citizens involved in bringing unauthorized foreigners to Makkah are also facing legal consequences.
