As Saudi Arabia prepares for the upcoming Hajj season, the Ministry of Interior has reinforced its strict penalties for expatriates who overstay their entry visas. With heightened focus on maintaining security and order during the pilgrimage period, the Kingdom is intensifying efforts to regulate visitor entry and exit, ensuring smooth operations during one of the world’s largest annual religious gatherings.

 

Stringent Penalties for Overstaying Visitors

 

According to the newly reiterated guidelines, expatriates who remain in Saudi Arabia beyond their visa expiration will face severe consequences. These penalties include:

• A fine of up to SR50,000.

• Imprisonment for up to six months.

• Deportation following the jail term.

 

This stringent approach aims to ensure orderly movement of visitors and prevent any violations during the Hajj pilgrimage.

 

Saudi authorities are particularly emphasizing that visit visa holders are not allowed to perform Hajj and are urged to adhere strictly to their visa conditions. Failure to comply may result in severe legal consequences.

 

Key Measures to Regulate the Hajj Season

 

In preparation for the Hajj season, the Ministry of Interior has introduced a series of measures to ensure a smooth flow of pilgrims and maintain public safety around the holy sites:

• Mecca Entry Permits: Starting from April 23, 2025, only residents, citizens, and individuals with valid work permits or official Hajj permits will be allowed to enter Mecca. This measure aims to regulate access to the holy city and ensure that only authorized individuals are present during the pilgrimage.

• Umrah Visa Regulations: The final date for Umrah visa holders to enter Saudi Arabia was April 13, 2025, and they must exit by April 29, 2025, to avoid facing legal repercussions.

• Penalties for Service Providers: Hajj and Umrah service providers failing to report pilgrims who overstay their visas will face fines of up to SR100,000, with the potential for the amount to multiply depending on the number of violations.

 

Ensuring Safe Travel During Hajj

 

In light of these stringent regulations, it’s essential for travelers to take proactive steps to ensure safe travel and avoid any violations during the Hajj pilgrimage:

 

1. Adhere to Visa Regulations: Ensure that all visa conditions are met, and departure from Saudi Arabia is timely.

2. Check Entry and Exit Deadlines: For Umrah pilgrims, be aware of the entry deadlines and exit dates to prevent overstaying and incurring fines.

3. Report Violations Promptly: Authorities are encouraging citizens and residents to report any violations or suspicious activity by calling 911 in Mecca, Riyadh, and the Eastern Region, or 999 and 996 in other areas.

4. Stay Updated on Official Announcements: Regularly check for official updates regarding Hajj permits, travel regulations, and entry restrictions to ensure compliance.

 

A Comprehensive Approach to Safeguard Public Order

 

These efforts are part of an ongoing national strategy by Saudi Arabia to regulate the flow of visitors during the Hajj season, ensuring that the pilgrimage is conducted smoothly, safely, and in line with the country’s regulations. With the Mecca and Riyadh authorities working diligently to control access, these measures are crucial for maintaining the sanctity and safety of the Hajj pilgrimage.

 

Ministry of Interior officials have reiterated that these new rules reflect a commitment to upholding the safety of pilgrims, ensuring a well-organized and secure Hajj season in Saudi Arabia.

 

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