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Tuesday, April 22, 2025  
23 Shawwal 1446  

Saudi Arabia enforces harsh penalties on Hajj, Umrah service providers for overstay violations

Financial penalties can reach up to SR100,000
Muslim pilgrims arrive to cast stones at a pillar symbolising Satan during the annual Haj pilgrimage, amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, in Mina, near the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia, July 20, 2021. REUTERS
Muslim pilgrims arrive to cast stones at a pillar symbolising Satan during the annual Haj pilgrimage, amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, in Mina, near the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia, July 20, 2021. REUTERS

The Saudi Ministry of Interior has issued a stern warning to Hajj and Umrah service providers, imposing strict penalties for failing to report pilgrims who overstay their permitted duration in the Kingdom.

Companies and establishments serving these pilgrims must promptly notify authorities if any individual exceeds their authorized stay.

According to the ministry’s statement, financial penalties can reach up to SR100,000 (approximately $26,600) and may be increased based on the number of violators reported.

This warning has been issued in light of preparations for the upcoming Hajj season, with authorities tightening oversight measures to manage crowd control and ensure order during these religious events.

Matarat Holding Co. reported that more than 6.8 million passengers and Umrah performers traveled through four major Saudi airports from the start of Ramadan to the seventh of Shawwal.

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This figure includes over 4.6 million international travelers, while 2.1 million individuals utilized domestic flights.

Saudi authorities continue to emphasize the importance of adhering to pilgrimage regulations to guarantee the safety and organization of both Hajj and Umrah events.

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Saudi Arabia

Violation

umrah

hajj pilgrimage

hajj 2025

Saudi Ministry