Saudi Arabia: Imprisonment and Fines for Transporting Pilgrims Without Permits

The Saudi authorities have issued measures against violators of Hajj regulations, imposing prison sentences of fifteen days, a fine of 10,000 Saudi riyals, and deportation for those caught transporting individuals without valid Hajj permits or visas.

The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, using the hashtag #NoHajjWithoutPermit on its social media accounts, announced that security campaigns are operating around the clock in Mecca. These campaigns aim to apprehend violators and refer them to the appropriate authorities for strict enforcement of penalties.

In a statement, the Saudi Ministry of Interior reported that the seasonal administrative committees of the General Directorate of Passports have issued eight administrative decisions. These include a 15-day prison sentence for each transporter and a 10,000 Saudi riyal fine. The penalties apply to both residents and Saudi citizens. The fine is multiplied based on the number of violators transported. Additionally, violators face public defamation, deportation of expatriate transporters, and a ban on re-entry to Saudi Arabia for specified periods post-penalty. The Ministry also requested judicial confiscation of three vehicles used in the illegal transportation.

The Ministry of Interior urged all citizens and expatriates to comply with Hajj regulations and instructions, ensuring that pilgrims can perform their rituals in an atmosphere of security, safety, and comfort.