Saudi Arabia staged a high-profile security forces parade and military drills in Makkah ahead of Hajj 2025.

Interior Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud oversaw the military exercises conducted by the Hajj security forces, which included coordinated displays involving troops, helicopters, and an array of military hardware.

The drills were aimed at demonstrating the preparedness and operational readiness of the security apparatus tasked with safeguarding the annual pilgrimage.

During the exercises, security forces marched in formation while specialized units, including commandos, carried out tactical demonstrations, reflecting the comprehensive security strategy in place for Hajj. Helicopters hovered overhead as ground units simulated emergency response scenarios designed to neutralize potential threats and ensure the smooth flow of pilgrims across holy sites.

The Annual Hajj Parade 2025 showcased the readiness and professionalism of Saudi Arabia's security forces as they prepare to welcome over a million pilgrims to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah. pic.twitter.com/do6K1UvfCw
— Ishfaq Gowhar zargar (@kashmirgulistan) June 1, 2025

Speaking on the occasion, Director of Public Security and Chairman of the Hajj Security Committee, Lt. General Mohammed Al-Bassami, reaffirmed that the safety of pilgrims remains a top priority. “Hajj security is a red line,” he said. “Our forces are fully prepared and ready to deal with the utmost determination and force to confront everything that may disturb the peace of the guests of Allah. We are committed to ensuring that pilgrims perform their rituals in ease and comfort.”

More than 40,000 security personnel are being deployed this year across key pilgrimage sites including Makkah, Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah. The security blueprint also includes enhanced surveillance, emergency response protocols, and traffic management measures to accommodate the movement of over a million pilgrims.

The readiness of the security forces for Hajj 1446/2025. pic.twitter.com/OVqqLgQVV6
— The Holy Mosques (@theholymosques) May 31, 2025

The Hajj security parade, held annually, is a symbolic yet practical measure reflecting Saudi Arabia’s long-standing emphasis on safeguarding pilgrims during one of the world’s largest religious gatherings. It also highlights the logistical and operational challenges of managing the massive influx of worshippers to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah.

Officials said that in addition to traditional security units, the Kingdom is also leveraging technology such as drones, facial recognition systems, and smart monitoring tools to identify and respond to any irregular activity during the pilgrimage.

With the first groups of pilgrims already arriving in Saudi Arabia, authorities are stepping up coordination between various ministries and health, civil defence, and transport departments to streamline services during Hajj, which is expected to begin in mid-June.