42 Visit Visa Holders Arrested in Saudi Arabia for Violating Hajj Regulations
In a significant development just weeks before Hajj 2025, Saudi Arabian authorities have announced the arrest of 42 individuals holding visit visas for breaching pilgrimage regulations. This action highlights the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts to ensure that only those with proper permits participate in the annual pilgrimage, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.
Strict Enforcement of Hajj Regulations
The Ministry of Interior confirmed on May 5 that the 42 individuals were caught attempting to perform Hajj without obtaining the necessary Hajj permits. These violators are now facing legal procedures, which may result in serious penalties.
Performing Hajj without an official permit is considered a serious offense in Saudi Arabia. According to the Ministry, those found guilty can face fines of up to SAR 20,000 (approximately USD 5,300), deportation, and a re-entry ban lasting up to ten years. The government stresses that these measures are essential to preserve the safety, security, and spiritual atmosphere of the Hajj pilgrimage.
Authorities emphasized that violators not only disrupt the smooth operation of the event but also place unnecessary strain on the country’s security and health systems, especially as millions of registered pilgrims are expected to arrive.
Prohibition Period and Entry Restrictions
In preparation for Hajj, the Saudi government has set a prohibition period between April 29 and June 10, 2025. During this time, visit visa holders are strictly banned from entering or staying in Mecca, the holy city where the main Hajj rituals take place.
Entry is allowed only for:
- Pilgrims with official Hajj permits,
- Residents of Mecca, and
- Workers and employees authorized to serve at the holy sites.
This rule is designed to maintain order and reduce congestion, ensuring that services are not overwhelmed by unauthorized individuals.
Crackdown on Unauthorized Pilgrims
The arrests of the 42 visa holders are part of a broader crackdown. Over recent weeks, Saudi authorities have reportedly intercepted and turned back more than 256,000 visit visa holders attempting to enter Mecca illegally for Hajj.
Adding to the concern, officials have uncovered 160 fake Hajj campaigns since April 29. These fraudulent operations trick unsuspecting pilgrims by offering false promises of access to Hajj using visit or tourist visas — which are strictly prohibited for this purpose.
Authorities warn that participating in or organizing such schemes is a crime. They urge the public to stay alert and report any suspicious activities or unauthorized Hajj promotions.
Penalties for Facilitators and Transporters
The Saudi government has also issued strong warnings to individuals and businesses that assist or facilitate unauthorized Hajj attempts.
Anyone found guilty of:
- Arranging visit visas for illegal pilgrims,
- Providing transportation services, or
- Offering accommodation or logistical help
could face hefty fines up to SAR 100,000 (USD 26,700), potential imprisonment, and confiscation of vehicles, assets, or properties involved.
This move aims to deter networks that profit from exploiting pilgrims’ hopes while endangering the integrity and safety of the pilgrimage.
Visa Policy Changes to Tighten Controls
In an effort to prevent misuse, Saudi Arabia has updated its visa policies, especially for travelers from 14 countries, including India. Since February 1, 2025, travelers are only eligible for single-entry visit visas valid for 30 days, replacing the earlier multiple-entry options.
This change is intended to curb repeated entry attempts and prevent visitors from overstaying or using visit visas for purposes other than tourism or family visits.
Authorities believe these stricter visa policies, combined with enhanced surveillance and border controls, will help reduce the number of unauthorized pilgrims trying to participate in Hajj.
Public Awareness and Compliance Campaigns
To reinforce compliance, Saudi authorities have rolled out extensive public awareness campaigns across various media channels. The campaigns aim to educate foreign visitors and local residents about:
- The official Hajj permit system,
- The legal consequences of violations, and
- The importance of following guidelines to ensure a safe and spiritual pilgrimage for all.
The Ministry of Interior has urged travelers to always verify information through official channels and avoid falling prey to unauthorized agents or online scams.
Visitors and pilgrims are reminded that adhering to the rules not only protects them from legal trouble but also contributes to the successful management of the event, allowing millions of people to perform their religious duties peacefully.
Conclusion
With Hajj 2025 fast approaching, Saudi Arabia is stepping up enforcement measures to ensure the sanctity, safety, and smooth operation of one of Islam’s most sacred rites. The arrest of 42 visit visa holders underscores the seriousness with which the Kingdom treats unauthorized Hajj participation.
Prospective pilgrims and visitors are strongly urged to respect all rules, obtain the proper permits, and avoid shortcuts that could lead to heavy fines, deportation, or even imprisonment. By doing so, they help uphold the values of discipline, respect, and unity that define the spirit of Hajj.
for more information click here
UAE’s $659 Billion Project Pipeline: A Glimpse into the Future
