MAKKAH: The 48th Grand Hajj Symposium, hosted by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in Makkah, emphasized the importance of adhering to religious concessions and complying with regulations during Hajj.
Minister of Hajj and Umrah Tawfiq Al-Rabiah and more than 500 scholars and thinkers worldwide participated in the event.
Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Asheikh, the grand mufti of Saudi Arabia, highlighted the Kingdom’s responsibility in caring for the Two Holy Mosques and pilgrims.
Al-Asheikh emphasized the importance of adhering to regulations and obtaining a pilgrimage permit, stating that failing to do so is a sin, according to Shariah.
The Hajj minister also stressed the need for pilgrims to cooperate with security authorities.
Al-Rabiah underscored the importance of informing pilgrims about available services during Hajj, highlighting the collaboration among security and service agencies.
He said these efforts are to ease pilgrims’ journeys and raise awareness about regulations, including campaigns to address the risks of not following Hajj instructions, and combating fraudulent activities.
The Kingdom also initiated the “No Hajj without a permit” national awareness campaign, led by the Ministry of Interior and other stakeholders, to educate pilgrims on pilgrimage rules, ensuring smooth and convenient rituals, Al-Rabiah said.
Lt. Gen. Mohammed bin Abdullah Al-Bassami, director of Public Security and chairman of the Hajj Security Committee, said that the Hajj security forces are prepared to deter and prevent any threats to the safety of pilgrims.
“We will prevent anyone who dares to compromise the security of Hajj, the sanctity of the holy sites, or the safety of the nation,” he said. “Our eyes and centers are prepared to handle anything that may disturb the tranquility of pilgrims.”
During a session titled “Toward a Safe Hajj — Compliance with Guidelines and Regulations,” Al-Bassami said that pilgrims and those carrying ihram without the necessary permits would face arrest. Additionally, they would be fined SR10,000 ($2,666), and foreigners and residents would be deported.
Al-Bassami announced the use of technology, including artificial intelligence, for this year’s Hajj season. A new system tracks pilgrim numbers at Jamarat Bridge, overseen by security personnel. A team of programmers and assistants reduces the need for frequent headquarters communication.
Al-Bassami said that artificial intelligence is now a vital component, not just an option, for ensuring security during the Hajj season.
He also noted the presence of 8,000 surveillance cameras in Makkah and the holy sites. Al-Bassami said that all security personnel are actively monitoring and enforcing compliance with Hajj regulations.
