Unlicensed Hajj Guides to Face Imprisonment, Fine
The fine will multiply depending on the number of people illegally transported.
Perpetrators’ vehicles are likely to be confiscated, and foreign offenders will be deported and banned from entering the country, Alarabiya reported on Tuesday.
The directorate urged the public to report any suspected violators to the police.
Residents of Saudi Arabia who do not have entry permits have been banned from entering Mecca by security control points starting from May 15.
Authorities have been instructed to only allow entry to those who work in the holy sites and have entry permits, those who have a resident’s identity card issued by Mecca, and those who have an Umrah permit or a pilgrimage permit.
The Hajj pilgrimage is a religious duty that Muslims perform once in their lifetime, if they are able and can afford it. It involves travelling to Makkah, the holiest city in Islam, and performing various rites that commemorate the faith and history of Abraham and his family. This year, the Hajj will take place from June 26 to July 1, according to the Islamic lunar calendar.
The Hajj is a spiritual journey that brings Muslims closer to God and strengthens their sense of unity and brotherhood. It is also an opportunity for Muslims to seek forgiveness, repentance, and purification from their sins.
Source: Agencies
