The Saudi authorities have imposed severe penalties for those found to have violated the rules of Hajj. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah stressed that making a pilgrimage without obtaining the necessary permits would be considered illegal and would entail a fine of 50,000 Saudi riyals (more than 165 million soums). The same fine will be imposed on persons who are caught transporting pilgrims without appropriate permits.

Travelers found guilty of such violations can be imprisoned for six months, followed by deportation from Saudi Arabia. In addition, they will be banned from entering the country for a period of 10 years.

The publication also notes that those who violate the rules of Hajj will face public condemnation through media channels.