New Stringent Measures for Hajj 2025: What You Need to Know
Tightened regulations for Hajj pilgrimage implemented in Saudi Arabia
Looking to make the pilgrimage to Mecca in 2025? Buckle up, because Saudi Arabia has rolled out some serious changes to ensure a smooth Hajj experience. Here's the lowdown, courtesy of Liter.kz and Arab News.
Starting from April 29, 2025, the Ministry of Interior of the Kingdom has imposed a strict new order. To enter the holy cities of Mecca and Medina during the Hajj period (which lasts until June 10), a special Hajj visa is mandatory. Trying to sneak in without the necessary permit could cost you a hefty fine of up to 20,000 Saudi riyals (2.7 million tenge).
But wait, there's more. If you're caught aiding in illegal participation in the pilgrimage—whether you're the organizer, the harbinger, or the assistant—you're looking at a fine of up to 100,000 riyals (13.2 million tenge). And if you're not careful, you might even face deportation and a ten-year ban on entering the kingdom, regardless of whether you're a tourist or a resident with an expired visa.
Drivers transporting pilgrims without permission will find their vehicles promptly confiscated by court order. But take heart! The Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia has prohibited hotels in Mecca from accommodating individuals without official Hajj clearance or residence and work permits during the pilgrimage season.
Tip:
Stay in the know about the updates and keep your documents in order to avoid any legal hiccups during the Hajj season.
Enrichment Data:
Updated Hajj 2025 Entry Requirements and Penalties
Entry Restrictions
- Valid Hajj permit, Mecca-issued residency ID, or work permit for Mecca-based employment is mandatory for accessing Mecca[1][4][5].
- Hajj permits are now digital, via platforms like Absher Individuals and Muqeem, integrated with the Tasreeh digital permit system for real-time verification[4].
- A temporary ban on Umrah and visit visas is in effect for citizens of 14 countries, including Iran, Mali, Ethiopia, Somalia, Congo, Libya, and Kenya[2].
Penalties
- Overstaying Umrah visas after April 29, 2025, will result in unspecified legal consequences[2].
- Travel agencies failing to report pilgrims overstaying visas face fines of up to SAR 100,000 (USD 26,659) per violation, with escalating fines for repeated offenses[2].
Health and Documentation
- Meningitis vaccination is mandatory for all pilgrims, while polio vaccination is required for travelers from endemic regions[3].
Accommodations and Aids
- Only pilgrims with valid Hajj permits can access official accommodations, transport, and meal services during the pilgrimage[4][5].
- Individuals aiding pilgrims (e.g., medical staff, volunteers) must hold work permits authorized for holy sites[5].
The 2025 Hajj runs from June 6–11, with Eid al-Adha starting around June 8 (subject to moon sighting)[2]. Stay prepared and comply with digital permit systems to ensure a hassle-free pilgrimage experience.
- The new Hajj visa is crucial for anyone planning to travel to Mecca and Medina during the Hajj period in 2025, following the strict new measures by Saudi Arabia.
- Fines reaching up to 100,000 Saudi riyals (13.2 million tenge) could be imposed on individuals aiding in illegal participation of the pilgrimage, potentially resulting in deportation and a 10-year entry ban to the kingdom.
- To avoid legal complications, it's important to stay informed about the updated entry requirements for Hajj 2025 and ensure that all required documents are in order.
- Be mindful that only individuals with official Hajj clearance or relevant permits will be allowed to access accommodations, transport, and meal services during the pilgrimage season in Mecca.
