A Saudi government spokesperson says more than 1.5 million foreign pilgrims are in the country for this year's Hajj.

More than 1.4 million Muslims have begun this year's Hajj pilgrimage in the Saudi holy city of Mecca, a year after 1,300 people died, mostly due to the extreme heat.Saudi authorities say they have stepped up safety precautions for the annual event.

This year, the Arafat sermon will be translated and transmitted live in real time into 35 languages, allowing millions around the world—and every pilgrim on the ground—to hear the message of unity, compassion,