The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has issued a stern warning to all intending pilgrims and visa applicants ahead of the 2025 Hajj season. In a statement released on April 28, the Saudi Ministry of Interior emphasized that no individual will be allowed to perform Hajj without an official permit, and outlined a range of heavy penalties for violators.

According to the statement, the penalties apply to individuals who attempt to perform Hajj without a permit, those who aid or abet such attempts, and those who misuse visit visas to gain access to Makkah and the Holy Sites during the restricted Hajj period ? from the 1st of Dhul-Qi?dah to the 14th of Dhul-Hijjah.

Categories of Violations and Penalties

The Ministry listed the penalties under four main categories:

Category One:

A fine of up to SAR 20,000 will be imposed on:

- Anyone caught performing or attempting to perform Hajj without an official permit.

- Holders of any type of visit visa who attempt to enter or remain in Makkah or the Holy Sites during the designated Hajj period.

Category Two:

A fine of up to SAR 100,000, with penalties multiplying based on the number of violations, will apply to:

- Individuals who apply for visit visas for persons who subsequently violate Hajj regulations.

- Persons who transport or attempt to transport visit visa holders to Makkah or the Holy Sites.

- Individuals or entities that shelter, conceal, or assist visa holders in accessing restricted areas ? including hotels, residential apartments, private homes, or pilgrims? housing facilities.

Category Three:

Residents and visa overstayers caught performing Hajj illegally will be deported and banned from entering the Kingdom for ten (10) years.

Category Four:

A competent court may order the **confiscation of any vehicle** used to transport violators, provided the vehicle is owned by the transporter, an accomplice, or a contributor to the offense.

NAHCON Issues Advisory

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has urged all prospective Nigerian pilgrims to strictly adhere to Saudi Arabia?s regulations. In a public advisory, the commission warned against any attempt to circumvent the permit system, stating that violators would not be protected from prosecution or deportation.

Conclusion

Saudi authorities have made it clear that the sanctity and order of the Hajj pilgrimage will be safeguarded through strict permit enforcement. All intending pilgrims are advised to ensure they have the proper documentation and to avoid engaging in or supporting any unauthorized activities. (Source: NAHCON)

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