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.

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

Millions will make the annual pilgrimage to Mecca. The kingdom faces scrutiny over safety after more than 1,300 people died last year.