Saudi Arabia enforces tough penalties for unauthorized Hajj participation

RIYADH: The Saudi Ministry of Interior has announced strict penalties for those attempting to perform Hajj without the required permits and those who facilitate such violations.

The measures will be in effect from 1st Dhul-Qi’dah to 14th Dhul-Hijjah.

Those who perform or are caught performing Hajj without permits will face a fine of up to 20,000 Saudi riyals.

This penalty also applies to all holders of visit visas who enter or stay in Makkah or the holy sites for a limited period without any permission.

Facilitators of unauthorized Hajj activities will face even stricter penalties, with the sponsor of a visit visa for those who violate the Hajj permit regulations facing a fine of up to 100,000 Saudi riyals.

This fine also applies to those who assist visit visa holders in reaching or staying in Makkah and the holy sites, including accommodation in hotels, apartments, private residences, or Hajj-specific facilities.

The fine will be multiplied for each person involved.

Furthermore, illegal infiltrators—whether residents or overstayers—will be found attempting to perform Hajj and will be banned from re-entering the kingdom for ten years.

Authorities will also seek to seize land vehicles used to transport unauthorized individuals to the holy sites if they are owned by the transporter, facilitator, or an accomplice.

The ministry stressed that these measures are aimed at ensuring the safety, security, and organization of the annual Hajj, urging all citizens, residents, and pilgrims to fully comply with Hajj regulations.