Saudi Ministry Of Interior Announces Penalties For Hajj Permit Violators.
The Saudi Ministry of Interior has announced strict penalties for individuals who attempt to perform Hajj without a permit, as well as those who facilitate such violations. The penalties, which will be enforced from Dhul-Qi’dah 1 to Dhul-Hijjah 14, aim to ensure that pilgrims adhere to the regulations governing the holy pilgrimage.
According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), individuals attempting to perform Hajj without a permit will face fines of up to SAR 20,000 (approximately $5,332 USD). Additionally, those who apply for a visit visa for individuals who have performed or attempted to perform Hajj without a permit will be fined SAR 100,000 (approximately $26,661 USD) per individual involved.
The ministry has also warned against transporting or sheltering visit visa holders in Makkah city and the holy sites during the specified period. Those found guilty of such offenses will face fines that will multiply for each individual involved.
Furthermore, individuals who attempt to perform Hajj without authorization, including residents and overstayers, will be deported to their countries and banned from entering the Kingdom for ten years. The ministry has also requested that the relevant court confiscate land vehicles used to transport visit visa holders to Makkah city and the holy sites during the specified period.
Meanwhile, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced that the airlift for Nigerian intending pilgrims who paid for the 2025 Hajj will commence on May 9. A total of 43,000 pilgrims have paid for the pilgrimage, and NAHCON has assured that all necessary arrangements are in place to ensure a smooth and successful journey for the pilgrims.