A fine of 20,000 riyals for those who perform Hajj on a visit visa in Saudi Arabia in 1445 AH
In a decisive regulatory step aimed at ensuring the safety and security of pilgrims to the Holy Mosque in Mecca, the Saudi Ministry of Interior announced the implementation of strict penalties against anyone attempting to perform Hajj or enter Mecca and the holy sites without a valid Hajj permit. These measures are part of the Kingdom's preparations for the 1445 AH Hajj season and aim to organize the world's largest religious gathering.
The Ministry confirmed that it will begin imposing a fine of 20,000 Saudi Riyals on any holder of a visit visa, regardless of its type or designation, who is caught attempting to enter or remain in Mecca and the holy sites (Mina, Muzdalifah, and Arafat) during the specified period. This decision will be in effect from the 1st of Dhu al-Qi'dah until the 14th of Dhu al-Hijjah. The penalty will not be limited to the fine; it will also include the deportation of violators residing in the Kingdom to their home countries, along with a ban on entering the Kingdom for up to 10 years.
Historical background and importance of the organization
Saudi Arabia welcomes millions of Muslims from around the world each year for Hajj, the fifth pillar of Islam. Over the decades, managing the Hajj has presented immense logistical and security challenges due to the ever-increasing number of pilgrims. Past Hajj seasons have witnessed stampedes and overcrowding incidents resulting in deaths and injuries, prompting Saudi authorities to continuously refine their organizational plans. New measures, such as the electronic permit system and quotas for each country, are part of a comprehensive strategy to ensure the smooth flow of movement and the safety of the pilgrims.
Local and international impact of the decision
This decision primarily aims to eliminate the phenomenon of "Hajj without a permit," which places immense pressure on the infrastructure and services provided to authorized pilgrims, including transportation, accommodation, and healthcare. Domestically, the decision ensures the highest level of service for pilgrims who adhere to regulations and maintains public order in the holy sites. Internationally, the decision sends a clear message to all those wishing to perform Hajj that they must use official channels and helps combat fraudulent Hajj campaigns that exploit and mislead vulnerable individuals with visas that do not authorize them to perform the pilgrimage.
The Ministry of Interior emphasized that visit visas of all types do not constitute a permit to perform Hajj, urging everyone to adhere to the announced instructions and regulations. It also called upon citizens and residents to cooperate with the relevant authorities and report any violations by calling 911 in the Makkah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions, and 999 in the rest of the Kingdom, in order to contribute to the success of the Hajj season and ensure the safety and security of the pilgrims.
