Muslim worshippers perform prayers around the Kaaba, Islam's holiest shrine, at the Grand Mosque in Saudi Arabia's holy city of Mecca on August 28, 2017, prior to the start of the annual Hajj pilgrimage in the holy city. (AFP PHOTO)

RIYADH, Aug. 28 (Xinhua) -- Saudi Arabia announced on Monday the arrival of all foreign pilgrims who exceed 1.7 million, Saudi Press Agency reported.

The Director General of Passports Department Major General Suleiman bin Abdulaziz Al-Yahya stressed, in a press conference determination to facilitate the procedures of pilgrims entering the country.

He noted that his department has successfully managed the air, land and sea ports flow of pilgrims by recruiting highly-qualified and equipped personnel to guarantee pilgrims strict and swift entry.

Al-Yahya also warned those who want to transport unlicensed domestic pilgrims to the sacred places of tough fine-and-prison penalties.