Saudi Arabia Announces SAR 20,000 Fine For Hajj Pilgrims Without Permit

For travellers planning to visit Saudi Arabia to perform the Hajj, this year, there’s a firm new reminder from the Saudi Ministry of Interior: If you don’t have a valid permit, stay out. The Saudi Ministry has unveiled a bunch of hefty fines and severe penalties for anyone caught performing or even attempting to perform Hajj without proper authorisation between 1 Dhu al-Qi’dah and 14 Dhu al-Hijjah 1446 AH. So, what does this mean for potential pilgrims, and why is Saudi Arabia tightening the rules? Let’s break it down.

No Permit? No Hajj Or Pay Fine Upto SAR 20,000

If you’re thinking of sneaking into Makkah to experience the Hajj rituals without the necessary paperwork, think again. The Ministry of Interior is crystal clear: anyone caught trying to perform Hajj without a permit will face significant financial penalties. The fine for attempting to perform the pilgrimage without a valid permit can be as high as SAR 20,000 (approximately USD 5,300). That’s a hefty price for a spiritual experience that should be filled with devotion, not fines.

The Areas Under Scrutiny

It’s not just about getting to the Grand Mosque in Makkah. The Saudi authorities are keeping a close eye on several key locations where unauthorised individuals might try to slip through the cracks. The restricted zones include Makkah, the holy sites, the central area, and even the Haramain High-Speed Railway station in Ar Rusayfah. What’s more, if you’re caught in any of these locations without permission, you’ll be in deep trouble and a list of fines.

Visit Visa Holders Beware

One of the key points to note is that this rule doesn’t just apply to residents or overstayers. If you’re on a visit visa, you could be in for trouble. The Ministry has warned that any attempt to enter Makkah or the holy sites during the specified period without proper Hajj authorisation will result in severe fines. And the consequences don’t stop there. If you try to bring someone in on a visit visa, thinking they’ll escape the radar, be prepared to pay a fine of SAR 100,000 (around USD 26,661) – that’s if they’re caught attempting the pilgrimage without a permit. This penalty is applied per person, so it could get very expensive, very fast.

Don’t Even Think About Transporting or Sheltering Unauthorised Pilgrims

It’s not just the unauthorised pilgrims who need to watch out. If you’re thinking of playing “good Samaritan” and offering transport or shelter to someone attempting Hajj without a permit, you’ll also be facing fines. The Ministry’s message is loud and clear: assist, shelter, or transport unauthorised individuals, and you’ll pay the price. The fine is the same SAR 100,000 for each individual involved, and it multiplies with every additional person you’re caught helping.

Also Read: What Is Green Hajj & How Does It Benefit The Pilgrims?

What Do You Need To Do?

If you’re planning to go for Hajj make sure you have all the correct documentation. Saudi authorities are urging the public to stick to the rules and to report any violations. If you spot anyone attempting to break the law, you can report them by calling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, or 999 for the rest of the Kingdom. The penalties for breaking the rules are severe, and authorities are determined to keep things in check.

Stay Legal, Stay Safe

The Saudi Ministry’s new restrictions are designed to maintain order and ensure that the Hajj pilgrimage is conducted smoothly and safely. 

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