Saudi Arabia Introduces Penalties for 'Hajj Pilgrims Without Permit'
Violators, including those transporting unauthorized individuals to Hajj, face penalties including up to six months in jail and fines of 50,000 Saudi Riyals (approximately $13,333), according to an infographic in Arabic posted by the ministry on X on Tuesday.
The ministry added that presence in designated Hajj areas without a valid permit is a serious offense, applicable to all, irrespective of their residency status.
Offenders will be fined 10,000 Saudi Riyals ($2,667), and residents violating the rules could face deportation and a ban on re-entry for a duration determined by law.
The Ministry warned repeat offenders of harsher penalties, including imprisonment, fines, and potential vehicle confiscation, The New Arab reported.
The new regulations will be enforced across Mecca, the surrounding Central Zone, holy sites, the Haramain train station in Rusaifah, security checkpoints, sorting facilities, and temporary security stations from June 2, 2024, to June 20, 2024.
Read More:
This enforcement follows a recent mandate by Saudi authorities requiring all expatriates to obtain permits before entering Mecca. Starting May 4, 2024, expatriates must secure permission from the relevant authorities before entering the holy city, with security checkpoints barring entry to anyone without a permit.
The General Security, via the official Saudi Press Agency, reiterated the strict enforcement of all Hajj regulations for 1445 AH.
This includes the repatriation of vehicles and any expatriates found working in the holy sites without the proper permits. These permits can be issued by the competent authority, or individuals can present a resident ID from Mecca, a valid Umrah permit, or a Hajj permit.
Hajj, a pilgrimage to Mecca that every able-bodied and financially capable Muslim is obliged to undertake at least once in their lifetime, is one of the pillars of Islam and the largest act of mass pilgrimage globally.
It is a demonstration of Muslims’ unity and their submission to Allah. This year’s Hajj will take place between June 2nd and June 20th.
Source: Agencies
Reporting by Maryam Qarehgolzou
