Saudi Gazette report

MAKKAH — The Saudi Ministry of Interior has clarified that visit visas of all types and designations, with the exception of the official Hajj visa, do not entitle their holders to perform the Hajj pilgrimage.

In an official statement, the Ministry warned that violators attempting to enter or remain in Makkah or the holy sites between the first day of Dhul-Qi’dah and the end of the 14th day of Dhul-Hijjah using visit visas will face a fine of up to SR20,000.

The Ministry further stated that all violators — including residents who attempt to perform Hajj without the appropriate permits — will be deported to their countries of origin and banned from entering the Kingdom for 10 years.

The Ministry called on all residents, visitors, and citizens to comply strictly with Hajj regulations and instructions, which are designed to ensure the security and safety of pilgrims so they can perform their rituals in peace and comfort.

Authorities urged the public to report violations by calling (911) in the regions of Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, or (999) in all other regions across the Kingdom.