Saudi Arabia imposes strict Hajj regulations with fines, deportation, entry bans

Authorities introduce fines up to 100,000 riyals and 10-year entry bans for performing Hajj without official permits

Saudi Arabia has introduced stringent Hajj regulations, including heavy penalties and enforcement measures, aimed at controlling overcrowding and ensuring better safety for pilgrims during the annual pilgrimage.

The Saudi government has warned against performing Hajj without official authorisation and has imposed strict punishments for violations, according to the Saudi Ministry of Interior.

The Bangladesh Ministry of Religious Affairs on Thursday urged citizens to strictly follow the fresh regulations.

In a media statement, the ministry said Saudi authorities have added severe penalties for unauthorised attempts to perform Hajj by residents and visitors in the kingdom.

Under the revised rules ahead of the Hajj season, foreign residents violating the regulations may face deportation and a ban on re-entry to Saudi Arabia for up to a decade.

Quoting Saudi authorities, the Bangladesh ministry said individuals caught attempting Hajj without valid permits may be fined up to 20,000 Saudi riyals.

Those who assist illegal pilgrims -- by providing transport, accommodation or any other support -- may also face legal action, with fines reaching up to 100,000 riyals.

The ministry warned that penalties may increase depending on the level of involvement, and vehicles used in such violations could also be confiscated under Saudi law.

Under the revised system, only those with official Hajj permits will be allowed to enter Makkah and other holy sites.

The rule applies to all pilgrims and residents in Saudi Arabia.

The enforcement period will run from the 1st of Dhul Qa’dah of the Islamic calendar to the 14th of Dhul Hijjah, during which visa holders without valid Hajj permits will be barred from entering or staying in Makkah.

Saudi authorities have urged citizens, residents and all visa holders to comply with the regulations.

The Saudi authorities also encouraged the public to report violations by calling 911 in major areas and 999 elsewhere, as part of efforts to enforce the rules strictly.