ISLAMABAD: The Saudi Ministry of Interior has announced strict penalties aimed at curbing unauthorized Hajj attempts and punishing those who aid in violating pilgrimage regulations.
Effective from the 1st of Zul-Qi’dah to the 14th of Zul-Hijjah, individuals found performing or attempting to perform Hajj without a valid permit will face fines of up to SAR 20,000. The same penalty applies to all visit visa holders who enter or remain in Makkah or the holy sites during the restricted period without proper authorization.
The crackdown also extends to facilitators. Anyone sponsoring a visit visa for someone who violates Hajj permit rules, or aiding their travel or accommodation in the holy sites, may face fines of up to SAR 100,000 per violator. This includes providing transport, shelter in hotels or private residences, or any form of assistance. Repeat violations will incur multiplied fines.
Infiltrators—whether overstayers or undocumented residents—caught trying to perform Hajj will be deported and banned from re-entering Saudi Arabia for ten years.
Additionally, vehicles used to transport unauthorized pilgrims may be confiscated if owned by the facilitator or their accomplices.
The ministry stressed that these strict measures are in place to preserve the safety, security, and orderly conduct of the Hajj pilgrimage, and urged full compliance from citizens, residents, and visitors alike.
