Saudi Arabia warns of harsh penalties for harboring unauthorized Hajj pilgrims

RIYADH, May 26 (YPA) – The Saudi Ministry of Interior warned against harboring individuals without Hajj permits from entering or staying in Makkah and the holy sites, stressing that violators and facilitators will be arrested and penalized.

The ministry issued administrative decisions through seasonal committees against the transporters, accomplices, and those transported.

“Penalties include imprisonment, fines of up to SR100,000 ($26,600), public naming of violators, deportation of residents, and a 10-year ban from re-entering Saudi Arabia after sentencing,” the ministry said.

The ministry urged all citizens and residents to comply with Hajj regulations to ensure the safety of pilgrims. It warned that performing or attempting Hajj without a permit from April 29 to June 10 was prohibited.

The ministry confirmed that prohibited locations include all residential facilities, such as hotels, furnished apartments, private residences, shelters, Hajj accommodation sites, and others.

@E.Y.M