SRINAGAR: Saudi Arabia has announced strict penalties, including fines of up to SR100,000, for individuals performing Hajj without an official permit or facilitating such violations, the Ministry of Interior said.
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تعلن العقوبات التي ستطبق بحق مخالفي
التعليمات التي تقضي بالحصول على تصريح لأداء
الحج ومن يسهل لهم ارتكاب مخالفتهم.#لا_حج_بلا_تصريح pic.twitter.com/CIpc3Nhpmu— إمارة منطقة مكة المكرمة (@makkahregion) April 14, 2026
In a statement, the ministry said the measures will be enforced from April 18 until mid-June, covering the Hajj season, and will apply to both unauthorised pilgrims and those assisting them.
Under the rules, anyone performing or attempting Hajj without a permit will face a fine of up to SR20,000. The same penalty will apply to visit visa holders who enter or remain in Makkah and the holy sites during the restricted period from 1 Dhul-Qa’dah to 14 Dhul-Hijjah.
Higher penalties of up to SR100,000 will be imposed on individuals who facilitate violations, including arranging visit visas for illegal Hajj, transporting pilgrims, or providing accommodation. The fine may increase depending on the number of violators involved.
Authorities said those found entering Makkah without permits, including visa overstayers, will be deported and barred from re-entering the country for 10 years. Vehicles used for transporting violators may also be confiscated by court order.
The ministry urged residents and visitors to follow Hajj regulations and report violations. It also stated that individuals penalised have the right to file a grievance within 30 days and appeal before the Administrative Court within 60 days.
