Saudi
Arabia said the number of pilgrims ranged this year between 3.16 to
3.65 millions, blaming the inaccuracy on the enormous number of
unregistered pilgrims. (AFP)
By AL ARABIYA WITH AGENCIES
Hajj 2012 was one of the most successful Muslim pilgrimage seasons
despite the enormous number of close to 4 million pilgrims, said on
Sunday Saudi Prince Khalid al-Faisal, Governor of Mecca Region and
Chairman of Central Hajj Committee.
In a press conference held in Mecca, the prince said the number of
pilgrims ranged this year between 3.16 to 3.65 millions, blaming the
inaccuracy on the enormous number of unregistered pilgrims.
This huge number of unregistered pilgrims has caused many problems for the hajj organizing committee, he said.
He pointed out that there were more than 120,000 security men had been
mobilized to provide services for pilgrims, in addition to 10,000
vehicles, 25 civil defense helicopters and public security 20
helicopters operated by 360 pilots and technicians, as well as 30,000
surveillance cameras, 100 roving security patrols, and 200 security
centers.
Each able-bodied Muslim is required to make the hajj once in a lifetime,
as it is one of Islam’s five pillars. All male pilgrims must wear
seamless white garments of terrycloth and seamless shoes to show the
equality among Muslims.
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