#Saudi Arabia #Riyadh #Hajj #Ministry of Hajj

Strict Penalties for Unauthorized Hajj Participation

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has recently issued an important reminder regarding the necessity of obtaining official approval for performing the Hajj pilgrimage in the upcoming 1446 AH season. This announcement highlights the critical role that such permits play in ensuring the organization, security, and safety of the pilgrims participating in this significant religious event.

Importance of Permits

According to the Ministry, an official permit is a fundamental requirement to partake in the pilgrimage rituals and to maintain the safety and protection of all pilgrims. These measures are in place to uphold the regulations and directives that govern Hajj activities. Doing so ensures a smooth and peaceful execution of the pilgrimage rites, crucial for the overall Hajj experience.

Imposed Fines and Penalties

The Ministry has made it clear that there will be strict repercussions for individuals who attempt to perform Hajj without the requisite permissions. Violators could face fines of up to SAR 20,000 when caught trying to conduct Hajj without authorization. This penalty also extends to individuals who hold various types of visitor visas if they attempt to enter or remain in Makkah from the 1st of Dhu al-Qidah until the end of the 14th of Dhu al-Hijjah.

Moreover, the penalties could escalate significantly, with fines reaching up to SAR 100,000 for those who issue visit visas to individuals attempting to perform Hajj without permission or transport them to religious sites. The fines will multiply based on the number of people violating the rules. Furthermore, procedures will be implemented that may include deportation for rule-breakers, a ten-year entry ban into the Kingdom, and the confiscation of any vehicles proven to have been used for transporting unauthorized pilgrims to Makkah or the Holy Sites.

Official Guidelines and Warnings

The Ministry reiterated that only pilgrims with official permits for domestic travelers or standard Hajj visas for international pilgrims are allowed to participate in the pilgrimage. All other types of visas do not authorize the holder to undertake the Hajj pilgrimage, further underscoring the importance of adhering to the correct procedures.

Additionally, the public is urged to remain vigilant against fraudulent campaigns and misleading advertisements and to report any anomalies to official channels promptly.

Ongoing Efforts for Organization and Awareness

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is committed to increasing awareness about the required procedures and regulations as it coordinates with relevant authorities to organize and facilitate the pilgrimage effectively. These efforts are part of a broader initiative to ensure that pilgrims can perform their religious duties comfortably and peacefully, aligning with the Ministry's goal of providing exemplary services during the Hajj season.

As the dates for the 1446 AH Hajj season draw closer, the Ministry's reminders and enforcement of regulations aim to mitigate any disruptions and maintain the sanctity and security of this vital religious pilgrimage. Compliance with these guidelines is not only essential for the safety of all participants but also contributes to the smooth operation of one of the world's largest annual religious gatherings.