Saudi authorities have cleared hundreds of thousands of unregistered pilgrims from Mecca ahead of the Hajj pilgrimage, which begins next week. Security forces removed 153,998 foreigners on tourist visas and 171,587 others without Hajj permits.

The Hajj, starting on June 14, draws millions of Muslims annually. Crowd management is critical, especially after the 2015 Mina stampede that resulted in significant casualties. This year, over 1.3 million registered pilgrims have already arrived in Saudi Arabia.

Hajj is a major source of revenue and prestige for Saudi Arabia, which hosts the holiest Islamic sites in Mecca and Medina. Authorities continue to enforce strict regulations to ensure the safety and order of the pilgrimage.