RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior has announced penalties for individuals attempting to perform Hajj without the required permit as well as for those who facilitate such violations.
These measures will come into effect from the first of Dhul-Qi’dah until the 14th of Dhul-Hijjah.
Individuals caught performing or attempting Hajj without a valid permit or holders of all types of visit visas who attempt to enter or stay in Makkah city and the holy sites during the specified period will face fines of up to 20,000 Saudi Riyal.
Facilitators of unauthorised Hajj activities will face even harsher penalties, with fines reaching up to 100,000 Saudi Riyal for anyone sponsoring a visit visa for individuals violating Hajj permit regulations.
This penalty also extends to those who transport, shelter, or assist visit visa holders in reaching or staying in Makkah and the holy sites, including accommodations in hotels, apartments, private residences, or designated Hajj facilities.
Fines will be multiplied for each individual involved.
Additionally, illegal infiltrators—whether residents or overstayers found attempting to perform Hajj will be deported and banned from re-entering the Kingdom for a period of ten years.
Authorities will also seek to confiscate land vehicles used to transport unauthorised individuals to the holy sites if owned by the transporter, facilitator, or any accomplices.
