RIYADH, Aug. 16 (Xinhua) -- Saudi Arabia announced on Thursday the arrival of more than 1.6 million pilgrims from all over the world to perform Hajj in the kingdom.
The success of receiving foreign pilgrims was a result of coordination between concerned authorities, Sulaiman Al Yahya, general director of passports, told a press conference aired by Al Khbariya local TV.
Meanwhile, he said more than 233,000 domestic pilgrims have arrived at the holy city of Mecca, expecting more to come.
Yahya also warned of illegal pilgrimage, saying legal actions have been taken against 18 individuals for transporting pilgrims without permits.
Saudi Arabia has taken tough steps to prevent the entry of pilgrims without permits to avoid mishaps because of overcrowded areas in Mecca, especially at ritual performing sites.
