The Saudi Interior Ministry has commenced strict measures to enforce compliance with Hajj regulations, which mandate obtaining an official permit to perform the rituals. The ministry emphasized that stringent financial and administrative penalties will be applied against violators and anyone facilitating these infractions.
In a statement, the ministry confirmed that a fine of up to 20,000 riyals will be imposed on anyone found performing or attempting to perform Hajj without a permit, including holders of various types of visitor visas, as well as anyone attempting to enter Mecca or the holy sites or staying there without authorization, until June 10.
The statement also stressed that fines could reach up to 100,000 riyals and will accumulate with each additional violator for anyone who applies for a visitor visa for individuals intending to perform Hajj without a permit, transports these visa holders to Mecca or the holy sites, provides them accommodation, or conceals them in any manner that allows them to remain in restricted areas.
The penalties will also include the deportation of residents and intruders attempting to perform Hajj, with a ten-year ban on re-entry into the Kingdom. Additionally, any means of transportation used to convey violators will be confiscated if proven to be owned by the transporter or an accomplice, following a ruling by the competent court.
The ministry urged everyone to adhere to the regulations and guidelines aimed at securing the safety of pilgrims and enabling them to perform their rituals in a safe and organized environment.
In this context, the Transport Authority emphasized to carriers across the Kingdom the prohibition of transporting any passenger heading to Mecca or the holy sites without an official permit, until June 10, in accordance with the regulations governing Hajj.
The authority reaffirmed the necessity for transporters to obtain official licenses, operating cards for vehicles and drivers, and to comply with designated routes. Entry to restricted areas without prior permission will result in legal penalties for violators.
