Saudi Arabia is taking various measures to provide a smooth and chaos-free environment for the pilgrims during Hajj. Last year, in 2024, 1200 pilgrims died amid heat and overcrowding.
Saudi Arabia has barred children from Hajj, citing safety concerns of children owing to overcrowding. “This step has been taken to ensure the safety and well-being of children and to mitigate any potential harm during the Hajj pilgrimage,” the ministry said.
The ministry also announced that this year, in 2025, priority for Hajj will be given to first time pilgrims. This step has been taken to give a chance to as many muslims as possible to make holy pilgrimage once in their lifetime.
SAFETY MEASURES
For providing seamless experience to pilgrims, Saudi Arabia is initiating various safety awareness campaigns, streamlining pilgrims movement in sacred areas and upgrading infrastructure through modernisation of tent camps and pedestrian paths.
ALTERED VISA REGULATIONS
Saudi Arabia is altering visa policies to tackle overcrowding issues.
From February 1st, Saudi Arabia’s one year multi-entry visa will be temporarily changed to a single entry 30-day visa. This change will be applicable for 14 countries named Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen.
It has been observed that many visa holders come around this time and head towards pilgrimage without proper authorization. Thus, this makes it difficult for the management to handle overcrowding issues.
HAJJ REGISTRATIONS
Hajj is expected to start from June 4-6 depending upon the moon sighting. Thus, registration for Hajj has started.
Saudi nationals and other individuals can register themselves for Hajj through Nusuk app or official website. They need to verify their information and register the companions traveling with them through the portal.
You can read more by following this link.
