Saudi Arabia Issues Stern Warning to Pakistan Over Hajj Violations: What You Need to Know

Saudi Arabia's Warning to Pakistani Pilgrims

In a significant announcement, Saudi Arabia's Interior Ministry has issued a stern warning to Pakistan, indicating that strict penalties will be enforced on Pakistani nationals who breach Hajj permit regulations this year.

This warning coincides with the commencement of Hajj flight operations from Pakistan, with the first group of 442 pilgrims departing from Islamabad to Madina as part of the Makkah Route Initiative.

The Saudi ministry clarified that penalties will be in effect from now until June 10, 2025. Any Pakistani attempting to perform Hajj without a valid permit could face fines reaching SR20,000. This applies to all visa holders, including those who enter and remain in Mecca.

Additionally, a hefty fine of up to SR100,000 will be levied on individuals who apply for visit visas on behalf of those trying to perform Hajj without permits, or who assist in their entry or stay in restricted areas. The fines may increase based on the number of individuals involved.

The ministry also stated that anyone who transports, shelters, or aids visit visa holders in accessing holy sites will incur a penalty of SR100,000. This includes hiding their presence or providing accommodation in any form, such as hotels or private homes. Illegal entrants, including residents and overstayers attempting to perform Hajj without permits, will face immediate arrest, deportation, and a ban from entering Saudi Arabia for a minimum of ten years.

This strict warning arises from a concerning trend of beggars and illegal visitors from Pakistan traveling for Hajj without proper permits each year.

Over the past three years, Saudi Arabia has deported approximately 4,700 Pakistani beggars, urging Islamabad to include their names and passports on a no-fly list.

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif remarked that the growing number of beggars is damaging the country's reputation internationally.

This year, around 89,000 Pakistani pilgrims are expected to travel to Saudi Arabia for Hajj under the government scheme, with an additional 23,620 anticipated to travel through private tour operators. Approximately 50,500 Pakistani pilgrims will benefit from the Makkah Route Initiative, with at least 22,500 departing from Karachi and another 28,000 from Islamabad.