Saudi Arabia emphasizes Hajj safety regulations

The government has urged Muslims embarking on the Hajj pilgrimage this year to adhere to guidelines and regulations to ensure the well-being of all participants. Obtaining a Hajj permit is mandatory for citizens, residents and visitors. Failure to secure a valid permit can result in hefty fines and deportation for expatriates.

At a recent press conference in Riyadh, Hajj and Umrah Minister Tawfiq Al-Rabiah launched the “Pilgrimage Without A Permit” campaign with the Ministry of Interior, emphasizing the importance of cooperation with authorities. An awareness campaign in 20 countries warns of penalties for violating Hajj regulations, including using tourist visas to perform the pilgrimage.

Pilgrims must dress modestly and respectfully at the holy sites. Sheikh Abdulrahman Al-Sudais, head of the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques, reiterated the dress code: men must wear two unstitched, undecorated white garments (izaar and rida’) and must not cover their heads, while women must wear modest, loose-fitting clothing covering the entire body except the face and hands.

Pilgrims are also expected to follow crowd-safety regulations and designated routes. The government has issued stern warnings against bringing drugs, alcohol or weapons into the holy sites.

Pilgrims are encouraged to report suspicious activities to 911 in the Makkah region to counter criminals posing as tour operators and those attempting to enter Makkah without proper visas. Mohammed Al-Bassami, director of Public Security, stated that over 140 fake companies have been closed down, emphasizing the importance of respecting the Kingdom’s policies and regulations.