英语文摘:Saudi Arabia says over 1.8 million mostly foreign pilgrims observing hajj

RIYADH, Sept. 12 (Xinhua) -- Saudi Arabia said on Monday that the number of Muslims observing the hajj pilgrimage has exceeded 1.8 million, of which 1.3 million are foreigners, Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported.

The SPA quoted the General Statistics Authority as saying that the number of domestic pilgrims has reached 537,537, most of whom are non-Saudis living in the country.

Saudi Arabia has taken strict security measures to protect the holy sites.