614,918 pilgrims arrive in Saudi Arabia

A total of 614,918 pilgrims arrived in the Kingdom until Monday evening, according to statistics issued by the Saudi General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat), Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported. The Jawazat said the number of pilgrims arriving by air stood at 596,719, by land 11,551, and by sea 6,648.

The Jawazat at Al-Wadiah border crossing point received pilgrims arriving from Yemen. They were received warmly with gifts and roses. Their entry procedures via the border crossing point were completed with ease, Saudi Press Agency said. The Director of Passports in Najran Province Maj Gen Dr Sulaiman Bin Saleh Al-Sulaiman said that the Jawazat at the border crossing point had completed preparations to receive pilgrims who have arrived to perform Haj this year.

A terminal was prepared for their arrival and it was supported with well-trained and qualified staff in Haj works and high-tech modern technology to detect forgery, advanced computers and sophisticated biometric equipment to ensure speedy and easy entry procedures for the pilgrims.