Saudi Arabia has introduced tough new penalties aimed at curbing unauthorized participation in the annual Hajj pilgrimage.
The Ministry of Interior announced that individuals who violate Hajj permit regulations will face steep fines, deportation, and bans from re-entering the country.
According to a statement published by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the new enforcement measures are part of the kingdom’s ongoing efforts to regulate access to Makkah and the sacred sites during the pilgrimage.
These measures will be in effect from the 1st of Dhul-Qi’dah to the 14th of Dhul-Hijjah on the Islamic calendar.
The ministry warned that, “A fine of $5,332 will be imposed on individuals attempting to perform Hajj without a permit, and on visitors trying to enter or stay in Makkah during this period.”
In a stronger measure, a higher fine of $26,661 will be enforced on anyone who applies for a visit visa for individuals seeking to perform Hajj without the proper authorisation.
This same penalty will also apply to people who transport or house such visitors during the pilgrimage season.
“This includes concealing their presence or providing assistance that enables their stay,” the ministry emphasized, warning that the penalty would be applied per person and could multiply depending on the number of violators involved.
Authorities further noted that “illegal infiltrators, whether residents or visa overstayers, found attempting to perform Hajj will be deported and banned from re-entering the Kingdom for ten years.”
Additionally, vehicles used to transport those violating Hajj laws may be confiscated, pending a court ruling, particularly if the vehicle belongs to the transporter or anyone aiding the offense.
Saudi Arabia has maintained that these regulations are necessary to uphold order, manage crowds efficiently, and ensure the sanctity and safety of the Hajj pilgrimage.
Meanwhile, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has confirmed that the airlift of Nigerian pilgrims will begin on May 9.
According to Fatima Sanda Usara, NAHCON’s Assistant Director of Information and Publication, “the Commission is fully prepared for the airlift exercise, and we urge all pilgrims to comply with Saudi regulations.”
She also disclosed that 43,000 Nigerian pilgrims have already completed their payments for the 2025 pilgrimage.
