Hundreds of people have died during this year’s Hajj pilgrimage due to extreme heat in Mecca, where temperatures soared to over 50 degrees Celsius. Worryingly, 83% of these pilgrims were travelling via illegal routes, highlighting the dangerous risks associated with this pilgrimage.
The Saudi government revealed that many victims had paid exorbitant sums to illegal tour operators in the hope of bypassing government channels. Instead of being transported comfortably on air-conditioned buses and staying in safe, regulated accommodations, these pilgrims found themselves in the scorching desert heat, where they had to walk miles in extreme heat.
What are Hajj permits?
Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam that all Muslims must complete at least once in their lives.
Hajj permits are allocated to countries based on a quota system and distributed to individuals through a lottery.
Why do pilgrims take illegal routes?
Cost: Some experts say traveling without a permit is a cheaper option than official permits, which can cost thousands of dollars each.
Convenience: Others want to avoid lengthy application processes and waiting lists.
Lack of awareness: Some pilgrims may not be aware of the risks and legal requirements.
What are the risks associated with illegal Hajj pilgrimage?
Physical damage: Pilgrims may suffer from harsh desert conditions, dehydration and exhaustion while traversing dangerous terrain.
Arrest and deportation: Those caught taking illegal routes can be detained, fined, and deported.
Health risks: Unverified vaccinations and medical checkups increase the risk of spreading diseases.
Exploitation: Pilgrims can fall victim to human traffickers, scams and extortion.
What is the government doing
On Saturday, Egypt’s Prime Minister Mustafa Madbouly ordered the licences of 16 tourism companies to be revoked and their managers to be referred to the public prosecutor for organising illegal pilgrimages to Mecca, the Egyptian Cabinet said.
It said the rise in the number of deaths of unregistered Egyptian pilgrims was due to some companies “organising Hajj programmes using personal visit visas, which prevent its holders from entering Mecca through official channels.”