Saudi Arabia: Hajj pilgrims begin to arrive; 31 foreigners reported dead

Event

According to the Saudi Press Agency, at least 31 Muslims traveling to the kingdom for the annual Hajj pilgrimage died late Sunday, August 13. Authorities did not release any details regarding the cause of their deaths, but reported all victims were foreign nationals. 

As of August 12, more than 620,000 pilgrims had already arrived in Saudi Arabia in preparation for the Hajj - an annual pilgrimage to Mecca that most Muslims make at least once in their lifetime. Over 2 million Muslim worshippers are expected to arrive before the start of the Hajj at the end of August. Significant transportation delays and congestion, particularly at airports and the area surrounding Mecca, should be anticipated. An increased security presence across the country should be expected in the coming weeks.

Context

The Hajj pilgrimage is due to start on Wednesday, August 30, and last until Monday, September 4. The five-day pilgrimage period concludes with the celebration of Eid al-Adha, a feast day of sacrifice in the Islamic calendar.

Due to overcrowding during the pilgrimage, the security situation in Mecca and its surrounding areas can become destabilized. In 2015, more than 2000 pilgrims died during the Hajj in a stampede. Similar incidents involving stampedes and trampled pilgrims have also occurred in past years.

Advice

Individuals present in Saudi Arabia are advised to exercise caution at all times and avoid large crowds, especially during the Hajj period.

Additionally, given the prevailing terrorist risk in Saudi Arabia, those present in the country are advised to avoid public places deemed particularly likely to be targeted in the event of an attack (e.g., official buildings, military zones) and report all suspicious objects or behavior to authorities.