MAKKAH: The Ministry of Interior is continuing its actions to prevent individuals without Hajj permits from entering or staying in Makkah and the holy sites, warning that violators and those facilitating unauthorized pilgrimages will be arrested and penalized.
Hajj Security Forces in Makkah’s Al-Hijrah district recently arrested 42 expatriates holding various types of visit visas after they violated Hajj regulations, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Legal action has been initiated against the violators, and authorities are working to apprehend those who sheltered them.
In a separate incident, Hajj Security Forces arrested a Ghanaian resident for attempting to illegally transport four female expatriates to Makkah in violation of Hajj rules.
The man, who was driving a bus, had hidden the women in the luggage compartment in an attempt to smuggle them into the holy city without permits.
The driver and passengers were apprehended and referred to the competent committee for legal action, the SPA reported.
The ministry has announced a fine of up to SR100,000 ($26,600) for anyone transporting or attempting to transport visit visa holders to Makkah and the holy sites.
The same penalty applies to those who accommodate or shelter visit visa holders in any type of residence — including hotels, apartments, private homes, accommodation centers, or Hajj housing — within Makkah and the holy sites, or assist in their illegal stay.
Penalties increase based on the number of individuals transported, accommodated, or assisted, the SPA added.
Performing or attempting to perform Hajj without a permit, or entering or remaining in Makkah and the holy sites without authorization, can result in a fine of up to SR20,000.
Residents and unauthorized pilgrims will be deported and banned from reentering the Kingdom for 10 years, the ministry said.
The ministry announced that the restriction period runs from April 29 to June 10.
It urges full compliance with Hajj regulations to ensure pilgrims’ safety and the smooth performance of rituals.
Violations should be reported via 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, or 999 elsewhere in the Kingdom.
