KSA: Only Hajj visa holders allowed to perform pilgrimage

Sharjah 24 _SPA: The Saudi Ministry of Interior has reiterated that only individuals holding official Hajj visas are permitted to perform the pilgrimage. All other visit visa types do not authorise access to Makkah or the holy sites during the Hajj season.

Penalties for violations

The ministry warned that any individual found in Makkah or surrounding sacred areas between Dhu Al-Qi'dah 1 and Dhu Al-Hijjah 14 without a valid Hajj visa will be fined up to SAR 20,000. Violators will also be deported and banned from re-entering the Kingdom for 10 years.

Call for compliance

Authorities emphasised the need for full compliance with Hajj regulations to ensure the safety and security of all pilgrims and to allow for the smooth performance of rituals.

Reporting violations

The public is encouraged to report any Hajj regulation violations by calling 911 in Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, or 999 in the rest of the Kingdom.