The Saudi Ministry of Interior has announced strict penalties and fines for violations of Hajj laws.

According to the Ministry, up to twenty thousand Saudi Riyals fine will be imposed on those performing Hajj without a permit or attempting to do so.

There will also be a fine of up to twenty thousand Riyals for entry into Makkah or other holy sites on a visit visa during the Hajj season.

The Ministry further said that those found providing transport or assistance to visit visa holders, attempting to enter the designated Hajj zones, will face a fine of up to one hundred thousand Riyals. A similar fine will be imposed on individuals or institutions providing accommodation to unauthorized pilgrims in hotels or private residences.

The statement highlighted that the violators and their facilitators will be deported and banned from entering the Saudi Arabia for up to ten years.

Furthermore, vehicles used for the illegal transportation of pilgrims may also be confiscated.

Meanwhile, the Saudi Interior Ministry has clarified that appeals against penalties may be submitted within thirty days, while petition may be filed in court within sixty days.

The new rules and penalties will be enforced till the 14th of Dhul-Hijjah.