Saudi Arabia has announced a stringent new enforcement regime ahead of Hajj 2026, imposing fines of up to 100,000 Saudi riyals (approximately USD 26,000) on individuals who perform or facilitate pilgrimage without an official permit. The regulations, announced in April 2026, represent the Kingdom's most comprehensive crackdown on illegal Hajj attempts to date.

Fines for Pilgrims Without Permits

According to announcements from Saudi authorities, any person caught performing or attempting to perform Hajj without a valid permit will face a fine of up to 20,000 Saudi riyals. This applies regardless of the type of visa held, including visit visas, and covers the period from the first day of Dhu al-Qi'dah through to the fourteenth day of Dhu al-Hijjah.

The restrictions extend to entry into Makkah and the designated Holy Sites. Any holder of a visit visa who attempts to enter or remain in these areas during the Hajj period without a valid Hajj permit is subject to the same penalty.

Facilitation Carries Far Heavier Penalties

Those who assist others in performing Hajj without a permit face substantially harsher consequences. A fine of up to 100,000 Saudi riyals will be levied on anyone who:

  • Applies for a visit visa on behalf of a person who intends to perform Hajj without a permit
  • Transports or attempts to transport visit visa holders to Makkah or the Holy Sites
  • Shelters or attempts to shelter unauthorised Hajj pilgrims in designated accommodation

Deportation and Re-Entry Bans

Beyond financial penalties, residents and overstayers found performing Hajj without a permit face deportation from the Kingdom and a 10-year ban on re-entering Saudi Arabia. This measure underscores the seriousness with which Saudi authorities regard the integrity of the official Hajj permit system.

Why the Crackdown Matters

The enforcement measures are part of Saudi Arabia's broader effort to ensure the safety and orderly management of what is the world's largest annual gathering. Overcrowding in Makkah and on the pilgrimage routes poses genuine safety risks, and the permit system exists to regulate the number of pilgrims at each site.

As reported by Gulf News and other regional outlets, Saudi Arabia has barred all visit visa holders from accessing Makkah and the Holy Sites during the Hajj period. Entry is now restricted exclusively to holders of a valid Hajj permit, Makkah residency documentation, or an authorised work permit for the Holy Sites.

Advice for Pilgrims

Pilgrims planning to perform Hajj 2026 are strongly urged to ensure their Hajj permit and all documentation is in order before travelling. Those in Saudi Arabia on visit visas who had not secured a Hajj permit were required to have departed the Kingdom by 18 April 2026. Individuals who remain without correct documentation risk significant financial penalties, deportation, and a decade-long bar from returning to the Kingdom.

The Hajj permit system operates through the official Nusuk platform, which serves as the digital gateway for registration, permit issuance, and pilgrimage management.