SAR20,000 Fine Imposed on Visit Visa Holders Entering Makkah During Hajj

What This Article Is About & Why It Matters

This article highlights new enforcement measures introduced by the Ministry of Interior to regulate access to Makkah and the holy sites during the Hajj season. It reflects Saudi Arabia’s firm commitment to safety, order, and respect for religious sanctity, supporting Vision 2030’s goals of efficient pilgrimage management and global hospitality.

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Vision-Aligned Article:

Saudi Arabia Enforces Hajj Entry Rules

On May 11, 2025, the Ministry of Interior announced strict penalties to ensure order and safety during the Hajj 1446 AH season. Visit visa holders who enter or remain in Makkah or the holy sites from Dhu Al-Qi’dah 1 to Dhu Al-Hijjah 14 will face fines of up to SAR20,000. Additionally, residents who violate Hajj entry regulations risk deportation and a 10-year reentry ban.

The ministry urged full adherence to these regulations to protect the sanctity of Hajj and ensure smooth, safe experiences for all pilgrims. These measures support Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to elevate Hajj services, regulate crowd flow, and maintain safety within sacred zones—especially during high-traffic days of spiritual observance.

In line with Vision 2030, the Kingdom is enhancing its pilgrimage infrastructure, digital security systems, and legal frameworks to safeguard public well-being. By enforcing these rules, Saudi Arabia upholds fairness and prioritizes those with legitimate Hajj permits.

The public is encouraged to report any violations by calling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions, and 999 elsewhere in the Kingdom.

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Vision & Progress: Order in Faith

This policy safeguards one of the world’s largest religious gatherings and ensures pilgrims experience Hajj with peace, dignity, and ease.

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Safety, Values & Sacred Commitment

The regulations reflect Saudi Arabia’s values of respect, discipline, and stewardship of the holy sites in line with Islamic duty and national responsibility.

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Peaceful Culture & Regulated Access

By managing access through fair and lawful means, the Kingdom promotes unity, spiritual focus, and public tranquility during the sacred pilgrimage.

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Historical Context: Protecting Hajj Traditions

Since unification, Saudi Arabia has managed Hajj with increasing precision and care. Today’s regulations preserve that legacy while preparing for future growth.

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International Benchmarks

Much like visa enforcement for religious gatherings in the Vatican or India’s Kumbh Mela, Saudi Arabia is applying global best practices to sacred crowd management.

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Vision 2030 Metrics in Focus

• SAR20,000 fine for visa rule violations
• 10-year ban for residents who breach entry rules
• Hajj entry limited to those with legal permits
• Supports secure, orderly, and inclusive pilgrimage experience
• Aligns with Vision 2030’s goal for high-quality religious services

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To Our Global Friends

Saudi Arabia warmly welcomes pilgrims from every nation. Respecting Hajj protocols helps preserve the peace, purity, and shared blessings of this sacred journey.

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Helpful Government Links

• www.moi.gov.sa – Ministry of Interior: View Hajj security regulations and reporting procedures
• www.hajj.nusuk.sa – Nusuk Hajj Platform: Access Hajj permits, eligibility, and official pilgrimage services
• www.vision2030.gov.sa – Vision 2030 Portal: Learn how religious service transformation supports national goals

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Factbox Summary

• Date: May 11, 2025
• Location: Makkah and holy sites
• Policy: SAR20,000 fine for unauthorized entry
• Additional Penalty: Deportation and 10-year ban for residents violating Hajj rules
• Vision Link: Orderly pilgrimage, safety, religious integrity

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Discover

Be part of a respectful, peaceful, and spiritually enriching Hajj. Follow regulations to honor the sacred journey shared by millions each year.

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15 FAQs and Answers

1. What are the new Hajj regulations for 2025?
Visit visa holders are prohibited from entering Makkah and holy sites from Dhu Al-Qi’dah 1 to Dhu Al-Hijjah 14 unless they have official Hajj permits.

2. What is the penalty for visit visa violations?
A fine of up to SAR20,000 will be imposed on any violator entering or remaining in restricted zones during the specified period.

3. Are residents affected by these rules?
Yes. Residents who violate the regulations may be deported and banned from re-entering Saudi Arabia for 10 years.

4. Why are these measures being implemented?
To ensure the safety, order, and spiritual focus of pilgrims performing Hajj, especially during high-congestion days.

5. When do the restrictions apply?
From Dhu Al-Qi’dah 1 to Dhu Al-Hijjah 14 (approximately mid-May to late June 2025, depending on moon sightings).

6. What is the legal entry requirement for Hajj?
Only those with a valid Hajj permit issued through the official platforms may legally enter Makkah and the holy sites.

7. How do these rules help pilgrims?
They reduce overcrowding, improve emergency access, and enhance the comfort and safety of those performing Hajj rites.

8. How are these policies enforced?
Security forces and electronic surveillance systems monitor entry points and enforce compliance in real-time.

9. Are tourists allowed in Makkah during this time?
No. Tourists on visit visas are not permitted in Makkah or the holy sites during the restricted period without a Hajj permit.

10. How can someone report a violation?
Call 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, or Eastern Province. In other regions, call 999.

11. What happens to residents caught violating the rule?
They may face deportation and be barred from reentering the Kingdom for up to 10 years.

12. Are there exceptions to these rules?
Exceptions are rare and apply only to authorized personnel or those with official religious duties.

13. Is this policy new?
No. Similar restrictions are enforced annually during Hajj but are updated to reflect changing needs and technologies.

14. What role does Vision 2030 play in this?
Vision 2030 emphasizes the modernization of pilgrimage management and safety services for all pilgrims.

15. Where can I apply for a legal Hajj permit?
Visit www.hajj.nusuk.sa to apply for Hajj permits and verify official eligibility.

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Final Message from Harry Stuckler

At KSA.com, we support Saudi Arabia’s unwavering dedication to managing Hajj with wisdom, fairness, and reverence. A safe Hajj is a sacred duty—fulfilled with compassion and precision.

Bringing Saudi Arabia to the world and the world to Saudi Arabia.
By 2030, KSA.com will be the largest platform sharing the Kingdom’s stories of faith, stewardship, and transformation.

With gratitude,
Harry Stuckler
Editor & Publisher, KSA.com