RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior has reiterated that anyone entering the kingdom on a visit visa will not be permitted to perform the Hajj pilgrimage, underscoring that only those who obtain a regular Hajj Permit are eligible.
In an official statement, the ministry said a person holding “any type of visit visa is not eligible to perform Hajj,” stressing the requirement to secure the sanctioned Hajj Permit before travelling for the pilgrimage. The ministry warned that those found attempting to perform Hajj without the correct permit will face “strict legal action,” without specifying the exact penalties.
The statement asked pilgrims and organisers to strictly implement the rules and regulations set for the Hajj season to help maintain order and protect the safety of the millions who take part each year. Authorities also appealed for public cooperation with Hajj administration teams and security personnel, and urged people to immediately report any suspected illegal activity, including unauthorised Hajj arrangements or unauthorised guides, to the relevant institutions.
Officials said the measures are intended to ensure that pilgrims receive the best possible services during Hajj and to minimise overcrowding, fraud and other disruptions that could jeopardise safety and logistics. The ministry added that enforcing permit rules will help authorities manage accommodation, transport and health services more effectively during the peak pilgrimage period.
Religious travel agents and community organisers were reminded to verify clients’ permits in advance and to inform prospective pilgrims that a visit visa does not grant permission to perform Hajj, the statement concluded.
