Saudi Arabia cracks down on illegal Hajj with SAR100,000 fine and deportation rules / Image: File

saudi arabia has announced tough new penalties for residents and visitors attempting to perform Hajj without an official permit, as authorities stepped up efforts to control overcrowding and improve the safety of pilgrims during the Hajj 1447 Hijri.The Saudi Ministry of Interior confirmed that anyone caught performing or attempting to perform Hajj without a valid permit could face a fine of up to SAR20,000. Foreign residents who violate the rules will also be subject to deportation and a 10-year ban from re-entering the state.The announcement comes as Saudi authorities tightened rules ahead of the annual pilgrimage season, one of the world’s largest religious gatherings, attended by millions of Muslims globally.

Saudi Arabia’s new Hajj rules

Saudi Arabia has made it clear that only officially authorized pilgrims will be allowed to enter Mecca and holy sites during the Hajj season. Officials said obtaining a legal Haj permit is now a mandatory requirement for all pilgrims, including residents already inside the kingdom.The Interior Ministry said the restrictions apply from the first day of Dhu al-Qi’dah to the 14th day of Dhu al-Hijjah. During this period, visit visa holders are prohibited from entering or staying in Mecca without proper Hajj authorization.Saudi officials said the measures are aimed at ensuring smooth crowd management, reducing overcrowding and protecting pilgrims during extreme summer temperatures. Last year’s Hajj season saw major concerns over overcrowding and heat-related deaths, forcing authorities to strengthen permit enforcement this year.

fines and penalties

The crackdown does not just target unauthorized pilgrims. Saudi authorities have instituted strict penalties for anyone helping violators enter Mecca illegally.According to the Ministry of Interior, individuals or companies that transport, shelter or assist unauthorized pilgrims may face a fine of up to SAR100,000. The fine may increase depending on the number of violators involved.The rules apply to:

Officials also warned that vehicles used to transport illegal pilgrims could be confiscated through court orders.Saudi Arabia has additionally suspended Umrah permits through the Nussuaq platform during the Hajj season to prevent overlap between Umrah visitors and Hajj pilgrims.

Saudi Arabia urges visitors to follow rules

The Interior Ministry urged citizens, residents and all visa holders to strictly follow Hajj rules to avoid serious legal consequences. Authorities encouraged the public to report violators through emergency hotlines, including 911 in Mecca, Medina, Riyadh and the Eastern Province, and 999 in other areas.Saudi authorities have already begun enforcement action. In a recent incident, police in Mecca arrested a resident accused of promoting fake Hajj permits through social media platforms. The suspect was referred to public prosecutors.Officials stressed that the “No Hajj without a permit” campaign is designed to improve security, streamline the movement of pilgrims, and ensure that emergency services can effectively manage the huge crowds expected during Hajj 2026.

Digital control for Hajj 2026

Saudi Arabia has relied on digital permit systems, surveillance technology and strict visa controls as part of its broader Vision 2030 strategy to modernize religious tourism. Authorities are using these measures to better monitor the number of pilgrims and prevent unregistered visitors from entering restricted areas during Hajj.Officials say the strict enforcement reflects the kingdom’s long-term strategy to make the hajj safer, more organized and easier to manage as demand from global pilgrims continues to grow.