Saudi Arabia sets fines up to SR100,000 for Hajj permit violations
text_fields
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior has announced penalties for violations of Hajj permit regulations ahead of the pilgrimage season, as authorities step up enforcement to manage access to Makkah and the holy sites.
A fine of up to SR20,000 ($5,330) will be imposed on anyone performing or attempting Hajj without a permit. This includes holders of visit visas who enter or remain in Makkah or the holy sites between April 18 and May 31.
Authorities said fines of up to SR100,000 will apply to individuals who apply for visit visas for those attempting Hajj without permits, or for those who enter or stay in restricted areas during the same period. The penalty may be multiplied depending on the number of violators involved.
The same level of fine applies to anyone transporting or attempting to transport visit visa holders to Makkah and the holy sites, as well as those who provide accommodation, assistance or concealment. Penalties will increase in line with the number of people involved.
The ministry said infiltrators, including residents and visa overstayers, will be deported and barred from re-entering the Kingdom for 10 years.
It added that courts will be asked to confiscate vehicles used to transport violators if they are owned by those involved in the offence.
Individuals penalised under these measures have the right to file a grievance within 30 days of notification before the relevant committee and may appeal decisions before the Administrative Court within 60 days.
In a separate case, Makkah police arrested an Egyptian resident accused of fraud after he posted advertisements on social media offering fake permits and unauthorised Hajj services. He has been referred to the Public Prosecution.
The General Directorate of Public Security urged the public to comply with Hajj regulations and report violations by calling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, Madinah and the Eastern Province, or 999 in other regions of the Kingdom.