Saudi officials said they have stopped more than 269,000 people without official permits from entering Mecca for the annual Hajj pilgrimage
, aiming to prevent overcrowding and repeat of last year’s deadly heat incidents. Currently, 1.4 million Muslims with permits are in Mecca, with more expected soon.
Anyone caught without a permit faces fines up to $5,000 and possible deportation, including Saudi citizens and residents. Licenses of 400 Hajj companies have been revoked, and over 23,000 residents have been penalized. For the first time, drones are being used this year for surveillance and firefighting during Hajj
