Riyadh, June 8, 2024 — The Saudi Arabian government has issued a stern warning to all expatriates residing in the kingdom regarding unauthorized participation in the Hajj pilgrimage. According to the Ministry of Interior, any expatriate found attempting to perform Hajj without the necessary permissions will be deported and permanently banned from re-entering Saudi Arabia.

The ministry's announcement emphasizes that the rules are part of efforts to maintain order and ensure the safety of pilgrims during the Hajj, one of the largest annual gatherings in the world. The Hajj ceremony is set to begin on June 14, with Eid-ul-Azha to be celebrated on June 16.

The directive also states that Saudi citizens, residents, or visitors who violate the regulations by participating in Hajj without proper authorization will face a fine of 10,000 Saudi Riyals. The government is taking a hard stance on those aiding unauthorized pilgrims as well. Anyone found transporting or facilitating the participation of unauthorized Hajj pilgrims will face severe penalties, including up to six months in jail and a fine of up to 50,000 Saudi Riyals.

These measures are part of Saudi Arabia's ongoing efforts to regulate the pilgrimage process and ensure the safety and security of all participants. The Hajj is a significant religious event that attracts millions of Muslims from around the world, necessitating strict crowd control and security measures.

Authorities have reiterated the importance of complying with all regulations and have warned that enforcement will be stringent. The Ministry of Interior has also called on residents and visitors to respect the rules and cooperate with the authorities to facilitate a smooth and orderly Hajj season.

The Saudi government’s proactive approach underscores its commitment to managing one of the most important religious events in Islam effectively, ensuring that it is conducted safely and respectfully.