Saudi Health Minister Fahd bin Abdul Rahman Al-Jalajel announced that the number of deaths during the Hajj season this year reached 1,301, noting that 83% of these deaths were pilgrims who did not hold permits.

The minister explained in statements to the Saudi Al-Ekhbariya channel that pilgrims without a permit did not adhere to awareness and traveled long distances without shelter, which led to them being exposed to heat stress and contracting chronic diseases.

The minister added that the deceased did not carry identification cards, which required time to identify them and provide the necessary services.

He pointed out that more than 140,000 health and treatment services have been provided to pilgrims without permission, and there are still 95 patients receiving health care and services.