Jeddah, May 13, 2024, The Deputy Governor of Makkah Region and Vice Chairman of the Central Hajj Committee, Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, emphasized that no pilgrimage will take place without obtaining a permit, stressing that regulations will be strictly enforced against any violators of the instructions. These remarks came during his launch of the "Hajj is Worship and Civilized Behavior" campaign in its sixteenth season, on behalf of Advisor to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, Governor of Makkah Region and Chairman of the Central Hajj Committee, Prince Khalid bin Faisal bin Abdulaziz. The campaign was launched under the slogan "No Hajj Without a Permit," in the presence of several royal highnesses, excellencies, and officials of concerned authorities.
During the press conference to launch the campaign, the Deputy Governor expressed gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, for their care and attention in serving and ensuring the safety of the pilgrims. He commended their continuous guidance in harnessing all resources to facilitate the pilgrims' rituals smoothly and safely. He also praised the Minister of Interior and Chairman of the Central Hajj Committee for endorsing and overseeing the efforts related to this great Islamic ritual. Additionally, he acknowledged the guidance and supervision of the Advisor to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, the Governor of the Makkah Region, and the Chairman of the Central Hajj Committee, regarding the activities of the Executive and Central Hajj committees. These committees work throughout the year in collaboration with relevant authorities to prepare early for the season, enhance achievements, and establish mechanisms for addressing and avoiding any issues.
Prince Saud bin Mishaal stated that the launch of the campaign under such a slogan emphasizes the achievements of previous years in preventing violators of regulations who attempt to perform the pilgrimage without a permit. It has also contributed to reducing misconduct, exposing fraudulent campaigns, and consequently decreasing the number of irregular pilgrims. This has facilitated the improvement of services provided to the pilgrims and created a conducive spiritual environment for them to perform the fifth pillar of Islam in comfort and tranquility.
Moreover, Prince Saud bin Mishaal urged all sectors involved in Hajj to enhance coordination and readiness to receive and serve the pilgrims, in line with the directives and aspirations of the leadership. He also reiterated the importance of implementing regulations and not tolerating violations to ensure a safe and distinguished Hajj. In addition, he praised the statement issued by the Saudi Council of Senior Scholars, affirming the prohibition of performing Hajj without a permit, emphasizing that this fatwa takes into account the sanctity of the place and the holiness of the ritual. This aims to enable Muslims to perform the fifth pillar of Islam in safety, tranquility, and ease, while also enabling government sectors to improve the services provided to them. He also noted that unauthorized entry into the holy sites has a negative impact and disrupts the system of services provided to lawful pilgrims. Therefore, it is imperative to obey the authorities and avoid committing violations that could harm others in any way.
Meanwhile, the Director of Public Security, Lieutenant General Mohammed Al-Bassami, confirmed the readiness of the Hajj security forces in all sectors for the Hajj season of 1445 AH to confront any threats to security or order. He emphasized the prevention of any actions that could jeopardize the safety and security of the pilgrims. At the same time, Al-Bassami stated that violators will be detained, and penalties will be applied according to the regulations and laws. He also stressed the importance of concerted efforts to complete all field arrangements, enhance readiness, and implement plans at a level that aligns with the Kingdom's capabilities to serve the pilgrims. He also noted coordination with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah regarding a special identification card for pilgrims, mentioning that field plans have been developed to inspect all accommodation facilities in Makkah and remove violators of Hajj regulations.