The figures were compiled and analysed using information gathered from official Saudi government sources.

The data reveal a historically significant rise in the number of Muslims, both within Saudi Arabia and around the world, who do not recognise the legitimacy of the Saudi administration of the Two Holy Mosques.

The analysis is based on dozens of statements issued by Saudi security authorities concerning:

▪️ The arrest of individuals who attempted to enter Mecca without a permit.
▪️ Penalties imposed on transport companies and individuals for carrying pilgrims without permits.
▪️ The seizure of vehicles used to circumvent regulations.
▪️ Sanctions against Hajj operators that failed to comply with official instructions.

Among the findings:

▪️ 480,177 pilgrims
did not recognise the legitimacy of the Saudi Hajj permit system.

▪️ 140,000 vehicles
were involved in attempts to defy Saudi regulations.

▪️ 231 drivers
did not recognise the legitimacy of Saudi law.

▪️ 246 Hajj operators
did not recognise the legitimacy of Saudi procedures.

Notably, these figures of “defiance” increased despite a wide-ranging deterrence campaign launched by Saudi authorities ahead of the Hajj season, which included the deployment of masked armed personnel in public areas and the display of armoured military vehicles near the Grand Masjed.