Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior has announced strict penalties for individuals performing Hajj without an official permit, as well as those who facilitate illegal pilgrims. The measures include heavy fines, deportation, and long-term entry bans.
The penalties will apply during the period from Dhul Qada 1 (April 18) through Dhul Hijjah 14.
According to the ministry, individuals caught performing or attempting to perform Hajj without a permit will face fines of up to 20,000 Saudi riyals. The same penalty applies to holders of all types of visit visas who enter, attempt to enter, or stay in Makkah and the holy sites during the specified period.
Stronger penalties apply to those who facilitate such violations. A fine of up to 100,000 Saudi riyals will be imposed on anyone who applies for a visit visa for individuals attempting to perform Hajj illegally. The fine will increase for each violating individual involved.
The same maximum fine of 100,000 riyals will be imposed on anyone who transports or attempts to transport visit visa holders to Makkah or the holy sites. It will also apply to those who provide shelter, including in hotels, apartments, private homes, or Hajj accommodations, or who conceal or assist such individuals in remaining in the city. These fines will multiply based on the number of violators involved.
In addition to financial penalties, individuals who enter Makkah illegally to perform Hajj, including residents and those overstaying their visas, will be deported and banned from entering Saudi Arabia for up to 10 years.
The ministry also stated that courts may confiscate vehicles used to transport illegal pilgrims if they are owned by the transporter, facilitator, or accomplices.
Officials emphasized that these measures are intended to ensure the safety and security of pilgrims, with authorities working to maintain strict control and order during the Hajj season.
The ministry confirmed that individuals penalized have the right to file a grievance within 30 days of notification. Appeals against committee decisions can be submitted to the Administrative Court within 60 days.
Authorities urged Saudi citizens, expatriates, and all visa holders to comply with Hajj regulations and avoid violations. Moreover, the public has also been encouraged to report offenders.
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Very well. Hope such measures help curtail undue rush so that those doing it the right way and can perform with ease.
Where In the quran did you read this ?
What undue rush? You mean those who are rich only should go . Others should stay
Gotcha
What even is illegal hajj ? Is a prayer. How can a prayer be illegal ?
Well I don’t care . Don’t want to go there. I prefer praying at my local mosque.