Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior is continuing its extensive crackdown on unauthorized Hajj activities as the pilgrimage season approaches. Authorities have taken strict action against individuals attempting to enter Makkah and the holy sites without valid Hajj permits.
According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), Hajj Security Forces stationed at Makkah’s entry points recently arrested eight residents and 12 citizens for illegally transporting 75 people lacking permits to perform Hajj. In response, the ministry issued administrative penalties through seasonal committees for those involved, including both transporters and the unauthorized pilgrims.
Harsh Penalties for Violators
Those found guilty face severe penalties:
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Imprisonment
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Fines up to SR100,000 (approx. $26,600)
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Public naming of violators
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Deportation of expatriates
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10-year re-entry ban into the Kingdom
Vehicles used for unauthorized transport may also be confiscated. Individuals attempting Hajj without a valid permit risk fines up to SR20,000.
Also Read: New Smart Portal Launched to Enrich Pilgrims’ Grand Mosque Experience
Additional Incidents and Legal Actions
In a separate case, a Saudi citizen was arrested for transporting nine expatriates holding visas but lacking Hajj permits. All individuals were referred to relevant authorities for further legal action.
Meanwhile, Makkah security patrols arrested four Indonesian nationals accused of promoting fraudulent Hajj campaigns on social media. These schemes falsely advertised accommodation, transport within the holy sites, and forged Nusuk Hajj cards. The suspects were found sheltering 14 unpermitted individuals and were referred to the Public Prosecution.
Widespread Violations and Public Warnings
Just last week, authorities detained 43 residents and 39 citizens across various operations for illegally transporting 259 unauthorized pilgrims.
The Ministry of Interior has reiterated its warning: attempting or performing Hajj without a permit between April 29 and June 10 is strictly prohibited. Citizens and residents are urged to report violations by calling 911 in Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, or 999 in other regions.
Official Pilgrim Numbers Rise
Despite these violations, Hajj preparations are underway. The General Directorate of Passports reported that 890,883 international pilgrims have already arrived in the Kingdom via air, land, and sea. To streamline entry, ports have been equipped with advanced technologies and multilingual staff.
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