Saudi authorities warn Hajj violators of deportation, 10-year ban

Saudi Arabia has once again urged residents to strictly follow Hajj regulations, highlighting that a valid permit is essential for taking part in the annual pilgrimage.

The Ministry of Interior warned that those performing Hajj without proper authorisation will be deported and barred from entering the Kingdom for 10 years.

Officials stressed that holding a permit is a non-negotiable condition for participation, Saudi Press Agency reported.

The ministry called on all residents to adhere strictly to Hajj rules and guidelines, noting that these measures are in place to safeguard the well-being of pilgrims and support the smooth conduct of rituals.

Authorities also encouraged the public to report violations by dialling 911 in Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Region, or 999 in other areas of the Kingdom.

Minister of Media Salman Al-Dossary on Tuesday reaffirmed the Kingdom’s full commitment to serving pilgrims through an integrated system, in line with the leadership’s directives and Vision 2030 goals. He emphasised that the “No Hajj Without a Permit” campaign is central to organising the pilgrimage and raising awareness.

Al-Dossary reported that over 1,070,000 pilgrims have already arrived from abroad, including 249,000 through the streamlined Makkah Route Initiative. He noted that more than 25,000 mosques across Makkah, Madinah, and holy sites have been prepared, and millions of Qur’ans and digital ID cards distributed.

On the health front, Minister of Health Fahad AlJalajel called on pilgrims to follow key health guidelines, assuring the public that the healthcare system is fully prepared to manage any emergencies during the Hajj season.