Riyadh: The Ministry of Interior has issued a stern warning that individuals caught transporting citizens or residents who are in breach of Hajj regulations will face severe penalties. The ministry emphasized that possessing an official Hajj permit is an essential requirement for participating in the pilgrimage.
According to Saudi Press Agency, those found guilty of transporting violators of Hajj regulations could incur fines reaching up to SAR50,000, face imprisonment for a duration of up to six months, and potentially have their vehicles confiscated by court order. The ministry has made it clear that these measures are part of a broader effort to maintain order and ensure the safety of all pilgrims during the Hajj season.
Additionally, the ministry indicated that foreign residents found in violation would not only serve their sentence but also face deportation and a ban from re-entering the Kingdom for a period determined by relevant regulations. This approach underscores the Kingdom's commitment to upholding the sanctity of the Hajj pilgrimage and ensuring compliance with its regulations.
The Ministry of Interior has called upon all individuals to adhere strictly to the guidelines set for this year's Hajj season and to cooperate with the authorities to guarantee the security and safety of pilgrims. It issued a reminder that non-compliance and violations could lead to significant penalties.
Furthermore, the ministry encouraged the public to report any violations. It provided emergency contact numbers-911 for the regions of Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and the Eastern areas, and 999 for the rest of the Kingdom-to facilitate the reporting process.