The Government of Saudi Arabia has fastened Hajj regulations with heavy penalties to control overcrowding and improve pilgrim safety. The authorities warn not to perform hajj without a permit. The Ministry of Religious Affairs of Bangladesh urges its nationals to adhere to the hajj regulations adopted by Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia has introduced tough penalties for residents and visitors attempting to perform Hajj without an official permit, signaling a tighter regulatory approach ahead of Hajj 1447 AH. For foreign residents, violations may also lead to deportation and a ban on re-entering the Kingdom for up to 10 years. The Ministry of Interior has announced that individuals caught performing or attempting Hajj without a valid permit could face fines of up to SAR 20,000.
The enforcement extends beyond unauthorized pilgrims to include those facilitating such violations. Individuals or entities found transporting, housing, or assisting illegal pilgrims could face fines of up to SAR 100,000. Penalties may soar depending on the number of offenders involved. This applies to travel agencies, accommodation providers, vehicle owners, and even individuals offering shelter to violators. The interior ministry has also warned that vehicles used in such activities may be confiscated following legal proceedings.
Under the revised rules, only those with officially approved Hajj permits will be allowed to entry into Makkah and other designated holy sites. This requirement applies to all pilgrims, including residents within Saudi Arabia. Authorities clarified that the restrictions will be in force from the first day of Dhu Al Qi’dah until the 14th of Dhu Al Hijjah. During this period, individuals holding visit visas are prohibited from entering or staying in Makkah unless they possess valid Hajj authorization.
The Saudi Ministry of Interior has urged citizens, residents, and all visa holders to strictly adhere to the regulations. The Ministry has also encouraged the public to report violations through designated emergency numbers, including 911 in major regions and 999 elsewhere. Enforcement efforts are already underway, with authorities recently arresting an individual in Makkah for allegedly promoting fake Hajj permits on social media.