Saudi Arabia Cracks Down on Unauthorized Pilgrims During Hajj Season
In a bid to ensure the safety and security of pilgrims undertaking the annual Hajj pilgrimage, Saudi Arabia’s Public Security has implemented strict penalties for those violating regulations and instructions by attempting the pilgrimage without a permit.
The crackdown extends to various areas, including the city of Makkah, the central region, holy sites, the Haramain train station, security checkpoints, screening centers, and temporary security checkpoints, as detailed in a report from Saudi Press Agency.
The enforcement of the no-permit, no-Hajj policy will remain in effect until June 20, 2024.
Individuals, regardless of their citizenship status, who are caught violating Hajj regulations will face a hefty fine of 10,000 Saudi riyals ($2,666). Non-citizens will not only be fined but also deported to their home country and banned from re-entering the Kingdom for a specified period.
Public Security officials warn that repeat offenders will face doubled fines, emphasizing the importance of compliance with Hajj regulations to ensure a safe and peaceful pilgrimage experience for all participants.
Furthermore, those caught transporting unauthorized pilgrims without a permit risk imprisonment for up to six months, a fine of up to 50,000 riyals (13,328), and the confiscation of their vehicle.
Non-citizen violators will be deported after serving their sentence and prohibited from returning to Saudi Arabia for a designated period. Fines will escalate based on the number of unauthorized pilgrims transported, the agency stated.
To report violations, individuals can contact emergency services at (911) in the Makkah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions, or at (999) in other areas.