The Saudi Ministry of Interior has announced that heavy fines will be imposed on anyone who provides accommodation for visit visa holders within Mecca and the holy sites from April 29 (01 Dhu Al-Qidah) to June 10 (14 Dhu Al-Hijjah).
The latest rule covers any type of residence, including private homes, apartments, hotels, accommodation centers, or Hajj housing.
According to a report by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), individuals who violate this rule may be fined up to SAR 100,000.
The ministry stated the penalties will increase depending on the number of individuals that are illegally accommodated, sheltered, or helped.
This fine is among other fines that are being imposed during this year’s Hajj. Individuals who are caught performing unauthorized Hajj will be fined up to SAR 20,000. This includes those on a visit visa who enter Mecca or holy sites during the designated period.
Those found assisting others to perform the Hajj without authorization will also face heavy fines. Anyone who applies for a visit visa for an unauthorized individual who has performed or tried to perform Hajj or is caught transporting violators will be fined. The vehicles ferrying visit visa holders flouting the rules will be confiscated by court order.
Additionally, individuals who attempt to perform Hajj illegally, regardless of whether they are residents or overstayers, will be deported and barred from entering Saudi Arabia for the next 10 years.
The ministry urged all residents and visitors to comply with the Hajj rules, emphasizing the importance of protecting the safety of pilgrims and maintaining order during the season. The ministry also asked the public to support initiatives that ensure the smooth and safe performance of Hajj rituals.
The Saudi Ministry of Interior has also set up dedicated hotlines to report violations in Mecca, Riyadh, the Eastern region, and other parts of the kingdom.
