The Saudi Ministry of Interior has issued regulations for domestic and international pilgrims, announcing significant fines for violations.
According to Al Arabiya News, the Ministry stated that citizens and residents attempting to perform Hajj without a permit could face fines of up to 100,000 Riyals.
The Ministry’s statement specifies that anyone caught without a permit in the central areas of Makkah (Haramain Train Station Al-Rusaifa, Haramain Haram Maki, and the Central Security Control Center) will be arrested and fined up to 100,000 Riyals.
The Ministry warned that repeated offences would result in doubled fines. It aims to ensure strict adherence to Hajj procedures and prevent unauthorized attempts to perform the Hajj. To avoid disruptions, pilgrims must obtain the necessary permits and comply with regulations before arriving at the holy sites.
Additionally, Saudi Arabia has confirmed the trial of flying taxis (airborne vehicles) during this year’s Hajj season to provide superior travel facilities for pilgrims in Makkah. The Saudi government has signed an agreement with the German company Volocopter to use these vertical takeoff and landing vehicles to transport pilgrims from King Abdulaziz Airport in Jeddah to their hotels in Makkah.