Individuals caught providing accommodation to visit visa holders to perform Hajj will face heavy fines, according to the latest announcement by the Saudi Ministry of Interior.
The new rule includes any type of residence, such as private homes, hotels, apartments, accommodation centres, or Hajj housing within Mecca and the holy sites. The period where violators will be subject to penalties extend from April 29 (01 Dhu Al-Qidah) to June 10 (14 Dhu Al-Hijjah).
The Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported that violators may be fined up to SAR 100,000. These fines may increase according to the number of individuals who are housed, sheltered, or assisted illegally.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia announced a string of new rules to curtail the problem of unauthorized Hajj which has led to overcrowding and high Hajj death tolls in recent years.
Those caught performing or attempting to perform Hajj without authorization will be fined up to SAR 20,000. This includes visit visa holders who visit Mecca or holy sites during the specified period.
Any individual found applying for a visit visa for someone who has performed or is planning to perform Hajj will also be heavily fined. Fines will also be implemented on those caught transporting unauthorized individuals and the vehicles used for transportation will be seized by court order.
Moreover, those who attempt to perform Hajj without authorization will be deported and banned from entering Saudi Arabia for 10 years, regardless of their status as residents or overstayers.
The Ministry urged everyone to observe the latest rules and regulations, which have been introduced to safeguard pilgrims and maintain order during Hajj. The Saudi Ministry of Interior also shared that it has established hotlines to report violations in Mecca, Riyadh, the Eastern region, and other parts of the kingdom.