وزارة الداخلية تفرض عقوبات قاسية على المخالفين لتعليمات الحج وكل من يسهل لهم انتهاكها

The Ministry of Interior has announced a series of strict penalties for those who violate regulations regarding permits for performing the Hajj pilgrimage. This announcement aims to maintain order and adherence to the necessary procedures during the sacred season.

Penalties and Fines for Violations

1. Financial Penalties of Up to 20,000 Riyals:
The first tier of penalties involves a fine of up to 20,000 Saudi Riyals for individuals who are:

• Caught performing or attempting to perform Hajj without the required permit.
• Visiting visa holders who attempt to enter or remain in the city of Mecca and the sacred sites from the first day of Dhul-Qi’dah until the 14th day of Dhul-Hijjah, which encompasses the period leading up to and including the Hajj pilgrimage.

2. Severe Financial Penalties of Up to 100,000 Riyals:
The second tier includes a substantial fine of up to 100,000 Riyals for more serious infractions, including:

• Those who apply for various types of visit visas for individuals who attempt to perform Hajj without a permit or who seek entry into Mecca and the sacred sites during the critical period. The penalties multiply according to the number of visas issued for individuals who violate these rules.

• Individuals who transport visit visa holders towards Mecca and the sacred sites during the stipulated timeframe, attempting to facilitate their participation in Hajj unlawfully.

• Anyone who shelters visit visa holders anywhere designated for accommodation—such as hotels, private residences, guesthouses, or any housing facilities for pilgrims—or assists them in remaining in Mecca and the sacred sites during the defined timeline. Again, fines will increase with the number of individuals unlawfully sheltered or assisted.

3. Deportation of Illegal Pilgrims:
A significant measure introduced includes the deportation of those who illegally attempt to perform Hajj, including residents and overstayers, returning them to their home countries. Such individuals will face a ban from re-entering the Kingdom for a duration of ten years. This policy underscores the government’s commitment to upholding the integrity of the pilgrimage process and ensuring that only those with valid permits participate.

4. Confiscation of Vehicles Used for Illegal Transport:
Additionally, the ministry requests that the relevant court order the confiscation of any land vehicle used to illegally transport visit visa holders to Mecca and the sacred sites during the restricted period. This applies to anyone who owns, operates, or collaborates in the transport of unauthorized individuals to these religious sites.

Conclusion

These measures reflect the government’s serious approach to managing the Hajj season and ensuring compliance with established regulations. By implementing these penalties, the Ministry of Interior aims to regulate the flow of pilgrims effectively and ensure that only those who have adhered to the proper application channels can undertake the pilgrimage. The regulations are designed not only to protect the sanctity of Hajj but also to maintain public order and enhance the overall pilgrimage experience for legitimate participants.

As the Islamic calendar approaches this critical period, the ministry emphasizes the importance of obtaining the necessary permits and complying with the outlined laws to ensure a smooth and lawful pilgrimage experience.