The Saudi government has instituted and is strictly implementing fines for anyone who misuse their Hajj permits.
Saudi Arabia Penalties for Hajj Permit Violations
Saudi Arabia has introduced penalties for individuals found violating Hajj permit regulations. The Public Security Department has initiated the enforcement of these penalties in various locations, including Makkah, the central area, holy sites, the Haramain train station, security checkpoints, screening centers, and temporary security checkpoints. These penalties came into effect on Sunday, June 2, 2024, and will remain in force until June 20, 2024.
Violations, Penalties, and Reporting Violations
The Public Security Department has confirmed that individuals found violating Hajj regulations without a permit will face a fine of SR10,000 ($2,666). This penalty applies to citizens, residents, and visitors within the specified geographic areas without a valid Hajj permit. Additionally, residents found in violation will be deported to their home countries and prohibited from re-entering the Kingdom for a specified period, as prescribed by law.
The significance of following Hajj laws to guarantee the pilgrims' safety, security, comfort, and tranquility is underscored by the fact that repeat violators will be subject to a twofold punishment. Those found guilty of conveying Hajj violators without the proper authorization risk a maximum penalty of SR50,000 ($13,330) and six months in jail. The car involved in the violation may potentially be confiscated by the court.
For residents found guilty of this offense, deportation will follow after serving the sentence, accompanied by a ban from re-entering the Kingdom for a specified period. The financial penalty will be multiplied according to the number of violators transported.
To report instances of Hajj permit violations, individuals can contact emergency services at (911) in the Makkah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions, or (999) in other regions of Saudi Arabia. This reporting mechanism aims to facilitate the identification and enforcement of penalties against violators, contributing to the preservation of the sanctity and integrity of the Hajj pilgrimage.
In addition to the penalties outlined for Hajj permit violations, Saudi authorities have implemented enhanced enforcement measures to ensure compliance with regulations. Increased surveillance and monitoring efforts are being employed at various checkpoints and entry points to detect and deter violators. This proactive approach aims to maintain the integrity of the Hajj pilgrimage and uphold the safety and security of all participants. By strictly enforcing permit requirements and penalizing violations, Saudi Arabia reaffirms its commitment to preserving the sanctity of this sacred religious event.
