Heavy Penalty for Performing Hajj Without Permit as Saudi Arabia Fines 19 Violators

MAKKAH – (Web Desk) – Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior has announced strict action against 19 people — five expats and 14 citizens — for illegally transporting 29 unauthorized individuals into the holy sites. The penalty for performing Hajj without permit can reach SAR 20,000, and authorities are now enforcing this rule harder than ever.

This crackdown is part of a month-long campaign run by multiple security agencies, including the Makkah Region Police. Officers have been working together to break up smuggling networks and shut down fraud operations across the region.

Since April, arrests have included people from Sudan, Egypt, Yemen, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Many were caught forging Hajj wristbands, Nusuk cards, and residency documents to sneak into Makkah without proper permits.

Violators used unpaved roads and valley routes to bypass checkpoints. Others were caught posting fake Hajj service ads on social media or filming and sharing footage of violations online — both of which are now treated as serious offenses.

The 19 transporters and helpers face fines of up to SAR 100,000, possible imprisonment, public naming, and vehicle confiscation. The 29 unauthorized pilgrims each face fines of up to SAR 20,000. Expats among them will be deported and banned from re-entering Saudi Arabia for 10 years.

Authorities remind the public to report any suspected violations by calling 911 in Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, or 999 in all other parts of the Kingdom.