Saudi Arabia announces N42.8m fine for illegal hajj pilgrims, collaborators

The Saudi Arabian ministry of interior has announced penalties for individuals attempting to perform the 2025 hajj pilgrimage without the required permit and those aiding such violations.

NAN reports that the ministry warned that enforcement against illegal pilgrims began on Dhul-Qi’dah 1 and will continue until Dhul-Hijjah 14 in the Islamic Hijri calendar.

This timeline, starting from the first day of the 11th Islamic month to the last day of the 12th (April 29 to June 10), marks the sacred window when the annual pilgrimage takes place in the holy city of Makkah.

According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), offenders risk fines of up to SAR 20,000 (approx. N8.5 million) if caught attempting to enter or stay in Makkah during the hajj season without valid documentation.

The crackdown extends to those who facilitate or shelter offenders.

A second-tier fine of SAR 100,000 (approx. N42.8 million) will be imposed on anyone who applies for a visit visa on behalf of individuals attempting to perform hajj illegally or found within the restricted zone during the sacred period.

The same fine applies to transporters who aid undocumented pilgrims.

The ministry stated that the fine would multiply for each individual involved, warning that drivers, hotel managers, landlords, and others who assist in hiding such pilgrims will not be spared.

It added that authorities would also confiscate vehicles used in transporting illegal pilgrims if found to belong to any accomplices.

The ministry said the clampdown is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader effort to preserve the sanctity, security, and orderliness of the hajj exercise, which annually draws millions of pilgrims from around the globe.

Meanwhile, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced that the airlift of Nigerian pilgrims for the 2025 hajj will commence on May 9.

Fatima Usara, NAHCON’s assistant director of information and publication, said in a statement that 43,000 Nigerian pilgrims have completed payments for this year’s pilgrimage.