Saudi Arabia takes strict measures against illegal Hajj with a fine of 100,000 riyals and deportation / Photo: File
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has announced strict new penalties for residents and visitors who attempt to perform the Hajj without an official permit, as authorities intensify efforts to control overcrowding and improve the safety of pilgrims during the 1447 AH Hajj season.The Saudi Ministry of Interior has confirmed that anyone caught performing or attempting to perform Hajj without a valid permit may face a fine of up to 20,000 Saudi riyals. Foreign residents who violate the rules will also face deportation and be banned from entering the Kingdom again for 10 years.This announcement comes at a time when the Saudi authorities are tightening regulations ahead of the annual Hajj season, which is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world and is attended by millions of Muslims worldwide.
New Hajj rules in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has made it clear that only officially authorized pilgrims will be allowed to enter Mecca and the holy sites during the Hajj season. Obtaining a legal Hajj permit is now a mandatory requirement for all pilgrims, including residents who already live within the Kingdom, authorities said.The Ministry of Interior said that the restrictions apply from the first day of Dhu al-Qi’dah until the fourteenth day of Dhu al-Hijjah.
During this period, visit visa holders are prohibited from entering or remaining in Mecca without the appropriate Hajj permit.Saudi officials said the measures aim to ensure smooth crowd management, reduce congestion and protect pilgrims during extreme summer temperatures. Last year’s Hajj season saw major concerns about overcrowding and heat-related deaths, prompting authorities to step up enforcement of permits this year.
Fines and penalties
The campaign does not only target unauthorized pilgrims. The Saudi authorities also imposed stricter penalties on anyone who helps violators enter Mecca illegally.According to the Ministry of Interior, individuals or companies who transport, accommodate or assist unauthorized pilgrims may face fines of up to 100,000 Saudi riyals. Penalties may increase depending on the number of offenders involved.The rules apply to:
- Travel agents and facilitators
- Accommodation providers
- Vehicle owners and drivers
- Individuals who hide or assist offenders
The authorities also warned that vehicles used to transport illegal pilgrims could be confiscated pursuant to judicial orders.In addition, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has suspended Umrah permits through the Nusk platform during the Hajj season to prevent interference between Umrah pilgrims and pilgrims.
Saudi Arabia urges its visitors to follow the rules
The Ministry of Interior urged citizens, residents and all visa holders to strictly adhere to Hajj regulations to avoid serious legal consequences. The authorities also encouraged the public to report violators through emergency hotlines, including 911 in Mecca, Medina, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, and 999 in other regions.The Saudi authorities have already begun implementation processes. In one recent incident, police in Mecca arrested a resident accused of promoting fake Hajj permits on social media platforms. The suspect was referred to the Public Prosecution.Officials stressed that the “No Hajj without a Permit” campaign aims to improve security, simplify the movement of pilgrims, and ensure that emergency services are able to effectively manage the massive crowds expected during the 2026 Hajj season.
Digital controls for Hajj 2026
Saudi Arabia has increasingly relied on digital permit systems, surveillance technology and stricter visa controls as part of its broader Vision 2030 strategy to modernize religious tourism. The authorities are using these measures to better monitor the numbers of pilgrims and prevent unregistered visitors from entering prohibited areas during Hajj.Officials say the stricter enforcement reflects the kingdom’s long-term strategy to make the Hajj safer, more organized and easier to manage as global demand for pilgrims continues to rise.
