In 2023, an alarming report by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj revealed that more than 150,000 breaches of visa regulations were reported during the Hajj period. This highlights the essential need for pilgrims to comply with the strict conditions of entry and stay imposed by the Saudi authorities. Infringements committed by visitor visas Violations of Hajj requirements highlight the challenges travellers face, as well as the heavy penalties that follow. In this unique religious and spiritual context, it becomes crucial to understand the implications of violations in order to ensure a safe pilgrimage.
In 2023, Saudi Arabia recorded more than 153,000 offences to Hajj-related visa regulations. This alarming figure bears witness to violations of the conditions of entry and stay for pilgrims, and underlines the importance of rigorous compliance with procedures to ensure a safe and compliant spiritual experience. This phenomenon has prompted the Saudi authorities to announce severe sanctions to deter such offences in the future.
Details of violations
The Saudi authorities have identified various types of violations committed by holders of visit visas during the Hajj period. These offences include
- Illegal entry into the holy cities of Mecca and Medina without the appropriate Hajj permit.
- Attempts to take part in Hajj rituals with inadequate visas.
- Exceeding the length of stay authorised by the visa.
These infringements have numerous consequences for pilgrims, making it essential to comply with administrative procedures.
Penalties incurred
To deal with this worrying situation, the Saudi Interior Ministry has set up severe penalties for offenders. Therefore, any person who is in the holy places without a Hajj permit between 2 June and 20 June 2024 is liable to a fine of 10,000 Saudi riyals (approximately €2,500). In the event of a repeat offence, the fine can be as high as 100,000 Saudi riyals (approximately €25,000).
On the other hand, expatriates in breach of the law also risk expulsion from Saudi territory, as well as a fine of prohibition of return the duration of which will be at the discretion of the authorities. Those transporting pilgrims illegally face penalties of up to 6 months' imprisonmenta fine of 50,000 Saudi riyals (approximately €12,500) and the confiscation of their vehicle. These measures are aimed at preserving the integrity of the Hajj and ensuring the safety of authorised pilgrims.
Call for compliance with regulations
Given the increase in offences, the Saudi Ulemas Councilthe kingdom's highest religious authority, has reiterated that performing the Hajj without an official permit is a criminal offence. sin. The Ministry of Hajj has also urged the faithful to use only official channels to obtain their visas and to adhere strictly to the conditions of entry and stay.
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New regulations for the Hajj 2024
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has specified that the Hajj visa will be the only document authorised for participation in Hajj rituals in 2024. It is valid exclusively for stays in the towns of Jeddah, Medina and Mecca. This visa does not entitle the holder to employment, residence or travel outside these areas, on pain of a ban on future participation in the Hajj and deportation.
To simplify the process, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has introduced a registration system. electronics for Hajj visa applications. Applicants must register before 7 Dhou Al Hijjah or until the quota of pilgrims has been reached.
Comparative Visa Infractions for the Hajj 2023
| Type of violation | Number of cases |
|---|---|
| Illegal entry to Mecca | 87 642 |
| Illegal entry to Medina | 32 195 |
| Unauthorised participation in rituals | 21 874 |
| Exceeding the length of stay | 11 289 |
| Total offences | 153 000 |
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