Personal Safety During Hajj

The Islam Forum is filling up with questions and complaints about crime during Hajj. One would think that the most holy experience in the "birthplace of Islam" would be free from deliberate personal injury, theft, or fraud. Unfortunately, even in Mecca one must be on guard and careful to protect one's self and personal belongings. Any big city filled with "tourists" is a breeding ground for crime. The Arab News reports that crime in Mecca has increased in the past year, mostly involving robberies and assaults. The Saudi Gazette newspaper even reports that three temporary prisons are being set up inside the holy places this year, to accommodate those who are caught committing crimes during Hajj.

Saudi Arabia has over 100,000 security officers on duty during the pilgrimage. Despite the ever-present risk of crime, the most dangerous aspects of the pilgrimage are not malicious. One is more likely to be hurt by the large crowds, or through the spread of infectious diseases. Dr. Farouk Haffejee offers detailed advice for pilgrims to prevent injury or illness.

More advice on personal safety while traveling, from About.com:

• Prevent Pickpockets - About.com Guide to Senior Travel
• How to Hide Your Money When Traveling - About.com Guide to Student Travel
• Hotel Room Safety Tips - About.com Guide to Hotels/Resorts/Inns
• Safety and Security Travel Items - About.com Guide to Crime/Punishment

If you are in Mecca during the pilgrimage and find yourself in a dangerous situation, the emergency phone numbers within Saudi Arabia are:

• Police: 999
• Fire: 998
• Ambulance: 997

I pray that all pilgrims and their loved ones will complete the Hajj safely, in full health and happiness.