Saudi Arabia Imposes Fines for Unauthorised Hajj Pilgrimage

Saudi Arabia has introduced stricter penalties for unauthorised pilgrimages to Mecca and Medina during the Hajj season, effective from April 29 through June 10, as reported by the Kingdom’s Ministry of Interior.

Under the new regulations, individuals attempting to perform Hajj without a proper visa will face fines of 20,000 Saudi riyals (approximately $5,300). The rule specifically targets foreign nationals who enter the country without an official Hajj visa.

Those caught trying to arrange Hajj visas for undocumented pilgrims could face fines of up to 100,000 riyals (around $26,000). Offenders also risk deportation and a 10-year ban from re-entering Saudi Arabia.

The crackdown aims to ensure public safety and better regulate the massive influx of pilgrims during the annual Islamic pilgrimage.

Kursiv Uzbekistan also reports that Uzbekistan plans to launch an online portal for Hajj and Umrah registrations.