Saudi Arabia: Annual Hajj pilgrimage August 19-24

Event

The Hajj - an annual pilgrimage to Mecca that many Muslims make at least once in their lifetime - is set to take place this year August 19-24. However, pilgrims have been progressively arriving in the country in recent weeks. The five-day pilgrimage period includes the celebration of Eid al-Adha, a feast day of sacrifice in the Islamic calendar. Eid al-Adha is currently predicted to fall on August 22 this year.

More than 2 million Muslim worshippers are expected to arrive before the start of the Hajj. 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 until the conclusion of the Hajj.

Context

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

It should be noted that non-Muslims are not permitted to enter the cities of Mecca and Medina.

Advice

Individuals present in Saudi Arabia are advised to exercise caution, allow for extra time to reach their destinations, and be prepared for increased demand for lodging and travel services.