Local pilgrims must produce Haj permits at checkpoints

JEDDAH, 17 February — The Passports Department has urged Saudis and expatriates intending to perform Haj this year to have their Haj permits ready for inspection at checkpoints to ensure the smooth flow of pilgrims to Makkah and Mina on Wednesday, the first day of Haj.

"Those who are not carrying permits will be sent back from the checkpoints as per the directives of authorities," the department said in a statement.

"All transport firms must ensure that pilgrims they are carrying have valid Haj permits," it added. (SPA)