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Hajj 2025: 53 expats arrested for trying to enter Makkah without permit

A day before, Hajj security forces apprehended 60 foreign nationals holding visit visas as they tried to sneak into Makkah on foot

Published: Thu 5 Jun 2025, 12:59 PM

Hajj security forces have arrested 53 expatriates for violating Hajj regulations and instructions by attempting to enter the city of Makkah and perform Hajj without a permit on Thursday, June 5.

As thousands of pilgrims perform Hajj in Makkah, Saudi authorities have put strict penalties in place this year for violating regulations. These measures remain active through the end of the pilgrimage season.

On Wednesday, June 4, Hajj security forces apprehended 60 foreign nationals holding visit visas for violating regulations, authorities said. The accused attempted to sneak into Makkah on foot via a desert route, the official Saudi account of Public Security said in a tweet on X.

The statement also said that the accused have been referred to the competent authorities for appropriate action and levying penalties.

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Hajj penalties

The Kingdom's Ministry of Tourism earlier said that anyone caught transporting pilgrims without a valid Haj permit or offering accommodations to these violators in hotels, apartments, etc., will face a fine of 100,000 Saudi Riyals. This penalty applies to citizens, residents, and visitors.

Those who will be caught performing the pilgrimage without a permit or attempting to do so will face a fine of up to 20,000 Saudi Riyals. The same penalty applies to visit visa holders who attempt to enter Makkah and stay there from April 29 (Dhul-Qi'dah 1) and until Dhul Hijjah 14.

Vehicles used to transport pilgrims illegally will be confiscated by court order. Authorities have also stated that violators will be publicly named, as part of a wider effort to deter others from breaking the law.

Fines for violators from UAE

A fine of Dh50,000 will be imposed on any UAE citizen arriving in Saudi Arabia without a valid Hajj permit approved by the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat (GAIAZ).

The decision was made to make it a safe Hajj experience for all UAE pilgrims, as performing Hajj is contingent upon receiving an official permit issued by the authority. This is in line with Cabinet decisions under the Hajj and Umrah System, which governs the procedures for the Hajj season. The system ensures fair and transparent distribution of opportunities among applicants through electronic screening programs.