In a firm display of zero tolerance, the Saudi Interior Ministry has come down hard on a group accused of smuggling nearly 100 unauthorized individuals into Makkah ahead of Hajj.
Fourteen Saudi nationals and six expatriates were intercepted at Makkah’s entry points while transporting a total of 99 people lacking the mandatory Hajj permits. The ministry revealed that swift administrative action followed: those caught face a cocktail of penalties—prison time, fines of up to SR100,000, vehicle confiscation, and deportation for non-citizens, along with a 10-year re-entry ban.
For those attempting to sneak into the holy city without proper documentation, the cost can reach SR20,000 per person.
In a separate but related bust, Hajj Security Forces also arrested two citizens ferrying 15 individuals in defiance of pilgrimage laws. Their cases have been handed over to the authorities for further legal action.
The Interior Ministry issued a sharp reminder to all citizens and residents: obey the rules. These regulations aren’t bureaucratic red tape—they’re in place to protect the sanctity of Hajj and the safety of millions who travel to Makkah each year to fulfill a lifelong spiritual journey.
