Saudi Arabia Imposes Heavy Fines for Hajj Without Permit

Web Desk: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior has issued a stern warning and detailed penalties for individuals violating Hajj permit regulations, as well as those who facilitate such violations.

Starting Tuesday and continuing until around June 10, individuals caught performing or attempting to perform Hajj without a permit could face fines of up to SR20,000 (approximately $5,331). This also applies to all types of visit visa holders found entering or staying in Makkah or other holy sites during this restricted period.

According to the Saudi officials, those who facilitate such violations may face even steeper penalties. Anyone found applying for a visit visa on behalf of someone attempting to perform Hajj without authorization, or helping them enter or remain in Makkah, may be fined up to SR100,000 per person involved. This includes:

• Transporting visit visa holders to Makkah or the holy sites
• Providing accommodation in any form, including hotels, apartments, shelters, or private homes
• Hiding their presence or offering any form of assistance to help them remain undetected

Penalties will be multiplied based on the number of individuals involved.

In addition, illegal infiltrators—whether residents or visa overstayers—caught attempting to perform Hajj will face deportation and a 10-year ban from re-entering the Kingdom.

The Ministry also warned that vehicles used to transport unauthorized pilgrims may be confiscated by court order, particularly if owned by the transporter, accomplice, or facilitator.