Riyadh – The Saudi Ministry of Interior announced penalties for Hajj violators. These penalties apply to those performing Hajj without a permit. Fines range from 20,000 SAR ($5,300) to 100,000 SAR ($26,600). Infiltrators, residents, and overstayers will be deported to their home countries.
The ministry issued a statement. A fine of 20,000 SAR will be imposed. This applies to anyone caught performing or attempting Hajj without a permit. It also applies to visit visa holders of all types. The fine covers attempts to enter or stay in Makkah and the holy sites. This period runs from April 18 until May 31.
A fine of up to 100,000 SAR will be applied. This targets anyone who applies for a visit visa for someone else. The visa recipient must then perform or attempt Hajj without a permit. This includes entry or attempts to enter Makkah and the holy sites. The fine will be multiplied based on the number of individuals involved.
Similar fines apply to those transporting visit visa holders. This includes attempts to bring them to Makkah and the holy sites. Fines also target those sheltering or concealing violators. Providing any assistance to enable their stay is also penalized. This includes stays in hotels, apartments, or private accommodation. The fine will increase with the number of violators.
Procedures also include deporting Hajj infiltrators. This applies to residents and overstayers. They will be banned from entering the Kingdom for 10 years. Land vehicles used to transport violators may be confiscated. This applies if ownership is proven to the transporter or accomplices.
The ministry affirmed appeal rights. Those penalized can object to a financial penalty. They have 30 days from notification to appeal to the competent committee. The committee’s decision can be challenged in administrative court. This challenge must occur within 60 days of notification.