Saudi Arabia Warns of SR100,000 Fines for Aiding Illegal Hajj as Crackdown Begins

Saudi Arabia has announced a sweeping crackdown on illegal Hajj participation, imposing steep penalties on both unpermitted pilgrims and those who facilitate their entry into the holy sites.

The Ministry of Interior said individuals performing or attempting to perform Hajj without a permit will face fines of up to SR20,000. The same penalty applies to visit visa holders who try to enter or remain in Makkah and surrounding holy sites during the restricted period.

Far harsher penalties await facilitators. A maximum fine of SR100,000 will be imposed on anyone who arranges visit visas for individuals attempting Hajj without permits, transports them, or provides them shelter — whether in hotels, apartments, private homes, or designated accommodation. The fine will multiply for each violator involved.

The rules will be enforced from Dhul Qada 1 (April 18) until the end of Dhul Hijjah 14, covering the peak Hajj season.

Authorities also warned that individuals who infiltrate Makkah without permits — including residents and visa overstayers — will be deported and barred from re-entering the Kingdom for 10 years.

In addition, courts may order the confiscation of vehicles used to transport illegal pilgrims if they are owned by those involved in the violation.

The ministry said those penalised have the right to file a grievance within 30 days and may appeal before the Administrative Court within 60 days.

Calling for strict compliance, authorities urged citizens, residents, and visitors to follow Hajj regulations and report violations through the emergency number 911 in the Makkah region.

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