Authorities in Saudi Arabia have unveiled a series of strict penalties for individuals who violate regulations requiring permits for Hajj 2026, as part of preparations to ensure safety and order during the annual pilgrimage season.
The Ministry of Interior said the measures are intended to protect worshippers and maintain a secure environment at Masjid al-Haram and across the holy sites in Mecca. Officials stressed that compliance with permit rules is essential to manage the large number of pilgrims expected to gather.
Under the new regulations, individuals caught performing or attempting to perform Hajj without a valid permit face fines of up to 20,000 Saudi riyals. The same penalty applies to holders of visit visas who attempt to enter or remain in Mecca and surrounding holy sites during the restricted period, which runs from the first day of Dhu al-Qi’dah until the 14th of Dhu al-Hijjah.
Heavier penalties target those facilitating violations. Authorities said fines of up to 100,000 riyals will be imposed on anyone who applies for visit visas for individuals intending to perform Hajj without permits or remain in restricted areas during the designated period. These fines may increase depending on the number of people involved.
Transporting or attempting to transport visit visa holders to Mecca and the holy sites during this time will also result in fines of up to 100,000 riyals. Similar penalties apply to individuals who provide shelter or assistance to violators, including accommodation in hotels, private residences or other facilities. Authorities warned that fines will multiply based on the number of offenders being assisted.
In addition to financial penalties, expatriates and visa overstayers found attempting to perform Hajj illegally will face deportation and a ban on re-entering the Kingdom for up to 10 years. The Ministry added that courts may order the confiscation of vehicles used to transport violators, whether owned by the driver or accomplices.
Officials said individuals penalised under these rules have the right to appeal within 30 days of notification. Further challenges can be filed with the Administrative Court within 60 days of a decision by the relevant committee.
The Ministry urged citizens, residents and visitors to follow all Hajj regulations and avoid violations. It also called on the public to report any breaches through emergency channels in the Mecca region.
The announcement reflects Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to manage the pilgrimage safely and efficiently, particularly as global travel demand continues to rise and the number of pilgrims grows each year.
