Campaign: No Hajj without a permit: Strict penalties to ensure the safety of pilgrims
The Kingdom's historic efforts in serving the pilgrims
The care of pilgrims has been a matter of utmost importance and special attention for the government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for decades. Historically, the Kingdom has undertaken the responsibility of developing the infrastructure of the Holy Sites and expanding the Two Holy Mosques to ensure the accommodation of the increasing numbers of Muslim pilgrims arriving from all corners of the earth. Within the framework of this historical and religious commitment, government and service agencies constantly strive to provide everything that enhances the safety and security of pilgrims and improves the quality of services provided to them from the moment they arrive at land, sea, and air entry points until their safe and peaceful departure after performing their rituals, leaving behind expressions of gratitude and appreciation.
The "No Hajj Without a Permit" Campaign: Security and Humanitarian Dimensions
To ensure the highest standards of security and safety, the Saudi Ministry of Interior has launched and spearheaded the "No Hajj Without a Permit". This campaign primarily aims to enable pilgrims with valid permits to perform their rituals with ease and convenience, while dedicating all available security and humanitarian resources to their service. The campaign is of paramount importance at the local, regional, and international levels. Locally, it contributes to efficient crowd management and prevents overcrowding that could lead to health or security risks. Regionally and internationally, it sends a reassuring message to Islamic countries that their pilgrims are in safe hands and that the Kingdom applies regulations to ensure fairness and respect for each country's allocated quotas.
Strict penalties for violators and transporters
To ensure the campaign's success, the relevant authorities have implemented strict measures to address any disruptions to the Hajj. These measures include apprehending those violating Hajj regulations and instructions, whether they possess official permits or hold visit visas of any type, from the first day of Dhu al-Qi'dah until the end of the fourteenth day of Dhu al-Hijjah. The authorities have approved deterrent penalties, including a fine of up to 20,000 riyals for violators, in addition to deporting expatriates and banning them from entering the Kingdom for up to 10 years.
The measures were not limited to individuals violating the regulations; the Ministry of Interior's security forces extended their reach to apprehend anyone who dared to transport holders of visit visas or attempt to transport them to Mecca and the holy sites during the specified period. Penalties for those transporting them include imprisonment, a hefty fine of 100,000 riyals for each pilgrim transported illegally, public shaming of the transporter, deportation of any expatriates involved, and a ten-year ban from entering the Kingdom. The competent court also has the right to demand the confiscation of the land vehicle used in the crime if it belongs to the transporter, an accomplice, or anyone involved in the crime.
Large-scale awareness campaigns
In addition to security measures, the Ministry of Interior continued its media and awareness efforts to promote Hajj regulations and instructions, as well as the "No Hajj Without a Permit" campaign. In cooperation with partners in government agencies, awareness messages were disseminated across all official and unofficial platforms, websites, and channels, in up to 14 different languages to ensure the message reached all nationalities. The campaign included the use of SMS messages, roadside billboards, and indoor and outdoor screens. These efforts successfully reinforced the Hajj and security message through official accounts, regional governorates, and security sectors on social media, which have a following of over 30 million people.
Community impact and reporting methods
The ongoing "No Hajj Without a Permit" campaign has proven its effectiveness and profound impact on local, Arab, and Islamic public awareness, resonating positively and fostering a widespread understanding of the importance of adhering to regulations. This campaign is considered a key enabler for maintaining the safety and security of pilgrims. To enhance community participation in this endeavor, authorities have urged reporting violators by calling 911 in Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, and 999 in the rest of the Kingdom.
