Unauthorized Expatriates Sneak into Mecca During Hajj, Face Severe Consequences
Unauthorized Foot Pilgrimage Attempt: Sixty Individuals Caught Trying to Infiltrate Mecca via the Desert
In the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia, Hajj security forces apprehended 60 visit visa holders trying to infiltrate the sacred site on foot via a desert road, blatantly violating Hajj regulations.
Security cameras caught the moment these rule-breakers were intercepted and pursued as they roamed an unauthorized lane, attempting to reach Mecca. The violators were then handed over to the relevant authorities for legal action.
The first day of the Hajj pilgrimage commenced on June 4, 2025, with over 1.5 million Muslims congregating in Mecca.
Sally Shakkour, the English team leader and news writer, leads the English news team and has a wealth of experience in content publishing and digital journalism. Having been in the field for over six years, Sally specializes in SEO, writing original node stories, and monitoring Al Bawaba's social media accounts, leveraging her insights and knowledge of current trends and popular issues.
These expatriate intruders should be aware that tightened entry rules have been in effect since April 2025 in Saudi Arabia, with stern repercussions for those who skirt the system. Here's what to anticipate if you're caught attempting to enter without a proper Hajj visa or permit:
- Fines of up to 20,000 riyals (approximately $5,330) for unauthorized entry.
- Penalties for assisting others in performing Hajj without a permit can result in fines of 100,000 riyals.
- Restricted entry is only allowed for those with valid Hajj permits, residents, or authorized personnel during the specified period.
- Short-term visas for 14 countries have been suspended, making it harder for individuals to enter without proper documentation, ensuring a more controlled and safe Hajj pilgrimage.
Stay informed and abide by the regulations to avoid any unwanted complications during this significant religious journey.
In the realm of Saudi Arabia's digital journalism, Sally Shakkour, the English team leader and news writer, ensures the coverage of current trends and popular issues, such as the stringent Hajj entry regulations implemented in April 2025. Anyone attempting to infiltrate Mecca without a proper Hajj visa or permit risks facing severe consequences, including fines of up to 20,000 riyals ($5,330), penalties for assisting others reaching up to 100,000 riyals, restricted entry unless you're a resident, authorized personnel, or have a valid Hajj permit, and even the temporary suspension of short-term visas for 14 countries to maintain a controlled and safe Hajj pilgrimage, underscoring the importance of adhering to regulations in matters of both general-news and crime-and-justice.
