JEDDAH, May 1 (Bernama-SPA) -- Ministry of Interior Spokesman Colonel Talal bin Shalhoub confirmed that penalties are now being implemented against those performing Hajj, entering, or staying in Makkah and the holy sites without a permit, Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported.
He made the remarks during a session at the Digital Communication Conference.
Colonel bin Shalhoub stated that anyone caught performing Hajj without a permit, or entering or staying in Makkah or the holy sites on a visit visa, faces a fine of up to SAR20,000.
He added that anyone facilitating these violations—such as applying for visas, transporting, sheltering, concealing, or otherwise assisting violators—faces a fine of up to SAR100,000.
Fines are applied per individual violation. Residents or overstayers caught attempting Hajj without a permit will be deported and banned from the Kingdom for 10 years, he noted.
Colonel bin Shalhoub also warned against fraudulent Hajj schemes offering services like accommodation, transport, surrogate Hajj services, sacrificial animals, or fake bracelets.
He also highlighted the ongoing "Makkah Route" initiative, part of the Pilgrim Experience Programme under Saudi Vision 2030, operating at 11 airports in 7 countries. Launched in 1438 AH (2017 AD), the initiative has served 940,657 pilgrims.
-- BERNAMA-SPA
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