Riyadh: The Saudi Ministry of Interior has announced strict Punishments and heavy fines for violating Hajj regulations. Individuals caught performing or attempting to perform Hajj without a valid permit will be imposed fines up to SAR 20,000.

Fines up to SAR 20,000. will also be slapped if some one enters or stays Mecca or holy sites on visit visa during Hajj season.

Stricter penalties are set for facilitators: a fine of up to SAR 100,000 will be imposed on anyone who sponsors a visit visa for an individual who violates the Hajj permit regulations. The same penalty applies to those who transport, shelter, or assist visit visa holders in reaching or staying in Makkah and the holy sites. This includes accommodating them in hotels, apartments, private residences, shelters, or designated Hajj accommodations. The fine will be multiplied for each individual involved.

Additionally, illegal infiltrators - whether residents or overstayers - found attempting to perform Hajj will be deported and banned from re-entering the Kingdom for a period of ten years.

Authorities will also request the confiscation of land vehicles used to transport unauthorized individuals to the holy sites, provided they are owned by the transporter, facilitator, or any accomplices.

Appeal can be filed against fine within 30 days and application can be filed in the court within 60 days.

The ministry further stated that violators and their facilitators will be deported and barred from entering Saudi Arabia for up to 10 years.

These penalties will be enforced from the 1st of Dhul Qadah until the 14th of Dhul Hijjah.