Saudi Arabia warns that anyone planning to perform Hajj with illegal visas will be subject to arrest, fine and deportation.
The government stressed that pilgrims must have the proper Hajj Visa, as some have tried to join the pilgrimage using regular tourist visas in the past.
Saudi authorities have vowed to punish this practice harshly this year.
In a letter to all countries, including Ghana’s Hajj Board Chairman Ben Abdallah Banda, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj stressed strict measures to catch illegal pilgrims. Violators will face heavy fines and deportation.
The letter, which is signed by Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Hajj and Umrah, also mentions a “fatwa” that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Council of Senior Scholars issued. Muslims are not to do the Hajj without a permit according to this Islamic rule.
The statement reads:
“Furthermore, in support of this Fatwa,” the letter continues, “the Ministry of Interior in the Kingdom issued a statement on 25-10-1445 AH, clarifying the penalty for performing Hajj without a permit. The penalty includes a fine of 10,000 riyals and the expulsion of residents and visitors who violate the rules from entering the Kingdom.”
“Additionally, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has identified advertisements on social media from companies and fake accounts. These advertisements deceive individuals by claiming they can perform Hajj rituals through Umrah, tourist, work, family, transit, or other visa types at enticing prices. In reality, these visas do not authorize Hajj participation and will only expose individuals to potential punishment and legal consequences.”
“The Ministry has issued a statement warning all stakeholders against these deceptive advertisements. Be cautious and avoid tricks by fictitious companies and offices offering ‘commercial Hajj’ or other misleading names,” the letter concludes.
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