Saudi Arabia has introduced stringent penalties targeting individuals who attempt to perform Hajj 2026 without official permits, as well as those who aid visit visa holders in undertaking the pilgrimage unlawfully. The Saudi Interior Ministry announced that fines reaching SR100,000 will be levied on anyone facilitating illegal participation. This includes those providing accommodation, transportation, or support to individuals overstaying their visas for Hajj purposes.
The enforcement of these penalties will begin on 1 Dhul Qada, which corresponds to 18 April, and will remain in effect until 14 Dhul Hijjah. Under the new rules, individuals caught performing or trying to perform Hajj 2026 without a valid permit face fines of up to SR20,000. The same penalty applies to visit visa holders who enter or attempt to remain in Makkah and its surrounding holy sites during the restricted period.
More severe sanctions are directed at facilitators. Anyone applying for a visit visa on behalf of individuals intending to perform Hajj illegally, or assisting them in entering or staying in Makkah, may face fines up to SR100,000. This amount can increase depending on the number of violators involved. Similarly, those transporting or attempting to transport unauthorized pilgrims, or providing them with shelter in hotels, private homes, or other accommodations, will also be subject to fines up to SR100,000 per person.
The same financial penalty applies to individuals who conceal unauthorized pilgrims or provide any form of assistance enabling them to remain in the city. Beyond monetary fines, individuals who enter Makkah without permits—whether residents or visa overstayers—will be deported and banned from re-entry into Saudi Arabia for 10 years.
Authorities also revealed that courts may order the confiscation of vehicles used to transport illegal pilgrims, especially if owned by those facilitating these violations. The ministry clarified that individuals penalized under these regulations have the right to file grievances within 30 days of notification. Appeals can be submitted to the Administrative Court within 60 days following the committee’s decision.
Officials have urged citizens, expatriates, and all visa holders to adhere strictly to Hajj regulations to avoid penalties. The public is encouraged to report any violations by contacting emergency services via 911 within the Makkah region.
