Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior is stepping up enforcement efforts to curb unauthorized entry into Makkah and its holy sites during the Hajj season. In a firm warning issued Tuesday, authorities emphasized that individuals found violating Hajj permit regulations — as well as those facilitating such violations — will face arrest and legal action.
According to a statement by the Saudi Press Agency, Hajj Security Forces arrested six residents and 14 Saudi citizens for attempting to transport 99 individuals without valid Hajj permits at various entry points into Makkah. In another incident, two more citizens were apprehended while trying to smuggle 15 unpermitted individuals into the city in violation of Hajj regulations.
The Ministry outlined that penalties for violators include imprisonment and fines of up to SR100,000 ($26,600). Vehicles used in the unauthorized transport of pilgrims will be confiscated. Offenders may also be publicly named. Expatriate violators risk deportation and a 10-year ban on re-entry after sentencing. Those caught attempting to perform Hajj without a permit could face fines of up to SR20,000.
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The Ministry reiterated that entry into Makkah without a Hajj permit is strictly prohibited from April 29 to June 10, 2025. It urged the public and transportation providers to adhere to all Hajj regulations to ensure the safety, security, and smooth movement of authorized pilgrims. Authorities affirmed that surveillance and checkpoints across Makkah and surrounding areas have been intensified to uphold the sanctity and order of the pilgrimage.
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