Saudi Arabia's Public Security has reiterated that Hajj and Umrah service companies face fines of up to 100,000 Saudi riyals if they fail to report pilgrims who overstay their authorised period in the Kingdom. The warning comes as the 1448 AH Umrah season continues to draw large numbers of visitors to Makkah and Madinah.
What the rule covers
According to Public Security, the penalty applies to Hajj and Umrah service companies and establishments that delay notifying the competent authorities about any pilgrim or Umrah performer who remains in the Kingdom after the expiry of their permitted stay. The financial penalty can reach 100,000 riyals and increases according to the number of overstayers who are not reported.
The measure places responsibility for monitoring pilgrims on the licensed companies that arrange their travel and services. Under Saudi Arabia's integrated service model, these firms handle accommodation, transport and catering, and are now expected to track when their clients are due to leave and to flag anyone who does not.
Why the Kingdom is tightening enforcement
Overstaying has long been a concern around the pilgrimage seasons, as some visitors remain in the country to work or settle without proper residency. Saudi authorities treat unreported overstays as a breach of residency, labour and border security rules.
The renewed warning fits a broader pattern of digital and regulatory tightening. Every pilgrim must now hold a permit issued through the Nusuk platform to enter Makkah or the Grand Mosque, and an Umrah entry visa expires 30 days after issue if the holder does not travel. By holding companies financially accountable for reporting overstayers, the authorities aim to close remaining gaps in the system.
How the public can report violations
Public Security urged residents and citizens to report violations of residency, labour and border security regulations. It asked the public to call 911 in Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh and the Eastern Province, and 999 in the remaining regions of the Kingdom.
The appeal signals that enforcement is not limited to official inspections. Members of the public are being encouraged to play a part in identifying those who remain unlawfully after their permits expire.
Practical advice for pilgrims and operators
For pilgrims, the clearest protection is to depart on time. Umrah performers should note the exact expiry of their permitted stay and plan their return travel well before that date, keeping copies of their visa and permit details to hand. Anyone who faces an unavoidable delay, such as a medical emergency, should contact their service provider and the authorities rather than simply remaining in the country.
For operators, the rule makes prompt reporting a compliance priority. Companies should keep accurate records of each client's arrival and scheduled departure, monitor those dates closely and notify the competent authorities without delay when a pilgrim overstays. Because the fine rises with each unreported case, early and consistent reporting is the safest course.