What Strict Penalties is Saudi Arabia Imposing on Pakistan for Haj Violations?
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Synopsis
In a recent announcement, Saudi Arabia's Interior Ministry has issued a stern warning to Pakistan regarding the enforcement of strict penalties for Haj permit violations. With a significant number of Pakistani pilgrims traveling this year, the penalties aim to curb illegal activities related to the holy pilgrimage. Read on to learn more about the regulations and implications.
Key Takeaways
- Severe penalties for Haj permit violations announced by Saudi Arabia.
- Fines up to SR20,000 for individuals without valid permits.
- Additional fines for those facilitating illegal entries.
- Majority of Pakistani pilgrims traveling under government schemes.
- Strict enforcement to maintain the sanctity of the Haj pilgrimage.
Islamabad, April 29 (NationPress) In a stern announcement, the Interior Ministry of Saudi Arabia has warned that severe penalties will be enforced on Pakistani nationals found breaching Haj permit regulations this year.
This alert was issued as Pakistan officially began its Haj flight operations on Tuesday, with the inaugural group of 442 pilgrims leaving from Islamabad to Madina under the Makkah Route Initiative.
The Saudi ministry specified that penalties will be effective from today until June 10, 2025. It cautioned that any Pakistani who performs or attempts to perform Haj without a valid permit will incur a fine of up to SR20,000, applicable to all visa holders, including those entering and residing in Mecca.
Additionally, a fine of up to SR100,000 will be levied on anyone applying for a visit visa for individuals trying to perform Haj without a permit, or on anyone facilitating their entry or stay in restricted areas. This fine may increase depending on the number of individuals involved.
The ministry also clarified that a fine of SR100,000 will target those who transport, shelter, or assist visit visa holders in reaching the holy sites, which encompasses hiding their presence or providing accommodation in hotels, shelters, private residences, or Haj-specific housing. It warned that any illegal entrants, including overstayers, caught attempting to perform Haj without a permit will be promptly arrested, deported, and banned from entering Saudi Arabia for a minimum of 10 years.
Saudi Arabia's stringent warning to Pakistan stems from a concerning rise in the number of beggars, illegal visitors, and locals traveling for Haj without permits each year.
In the past three years, the Kingdom has deported approximately 4,700 Pakistani beggars, urging Islamabad to include their names and passports on its no-fly list.
“Their ever-increasing numbers are damaging the country’s reputation internationally,” remarked Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif.
This year, about 89,000 Pakistanis are expected to travel to Saudi Arabia to perform Haj under the government scheme, while an additional 23,620 are anticipated to travel through private tour operators. Approximately 50,500 Pakistani pilgrims will benefit from Saudi Arabia's Makkah Route Initiative, with at least 22,500 pilgrims departing from Karachi and another 28,000 from the capital, Islamabad.
Point of View
I believe the measures taken by Saudi Arabia reflect a necessary approach to maintain the sanctity and order of the Haj pilgrimage. The increasing number of violations not only affects the reputation of Pakistan but also the integrity of the holy sites. It is imperative for Pakistan to cooperate and ensure its citizens adhere to these regulations for a smooth pilgrimage experience.
NationPress
10/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What penalties will be imposed for Haj permit violations?
Pakistani citizens found violating Haj permit regulations may face fines up to SR20,000 and, in more severe cases, up to SR100,000 for facilitating illegal entries.
How long will the penalties be in effect?
The penalties will be applicable from now until June 10, 2025.
What happens to illegal entrants attempting to perform Haj?
Illegal entrants caught attempting to perform Haj without a permit will be arrested, deported, and banned from entering Saudi Arabia for at least 10 years.
How many Pakistani pilgrims are expected this year?
Approximately 89,000 Pakistani pilgrims are expected to travel to Saudi Arabia for Haj under the government scheme this year.
What is the Makkah Route Initiative?
The Makkah Route Initiative is a program designed to facilitate the travel of pilgrims from various countries directly to Saudi Arabia, streamlining the process for a better pilgrimage experience.
