Saudi Arabia announces strict penalties for illegal Hajj

Rules include heavy fines, deportation, long-term entry bans to ensure proper management during Hajj season.

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior has announced strict penalties for people performing Hajj without a valid permit and for those helping illegal pilgrims. The rules include heavy fines, deportation, and long-term entry bans to ensure proper management during the Hajj season.

These penalties will be enforced from 1 Dhul Qada (April 18) until 14 Dhul Hijjah. According to the ministry, anyone caught performing or trying to perform Hajj without a permit can be fined up to 20,000 Saudi riyals. This rule also applies to people on visit visas who try to enter or stay in Makkah and other holy sites during this period.

Stricter punishments have been set for those who assist such violations. Anyone applying for a visit visa for individuals intending to perform Hajj illegally can face fines of up to 100,000 riyals, with the amount increasing based on the number of people involved.

The same maximum fine of 100,000 riyals will be imposed on those who transport or attempt to transport visit visa holders to Makkah or the holy sites. It also applies to people who provide accommodation in hotels, apartments, private homes, or Hajj facilities, or who help hide such individuals. These fines will increase depending on how many violators are involved.

Along with fines, people who enter Makkah illegally for Hajj, including residents and those overstaying their visas, will be deported and banned from re-entering Saudi Arabia for up to 10 years.

The ministry also said that courts may seize vehicles used to transport illegal pilgrims if they belong to those involved in the violation.
Officials said these strict measures are meant to protect pilgrims and maintain order during Hajj. The ministry added that those who receive penalties can file a complaint within 30 days, and appeals can be submitted to the Administrative Court within 60 days.

Authorities have advised citizens, expatriates, and all visa holders to follow Hajj rules and avoid any violations. The public has also been encouraged to report anyone breaking these regulations.