💨 Abstract

In Saudi Arabia, officials have stopped over 269,000 unauthorized individuals from entering Mecca for the annual Hajj pilgrimage to manage overcrowding and prevent heat-related deaths. There are significant penalties, including fines up to $5,000 and deportation, for those caught without permits. The Hajj, a mandatory once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage, faces challenges due to extreme temperatures and large crowds.

Courtesy: WTOP Staff