RIYADH: The Saudi Arabian authorities have issued a strong warning of strict action against violations of Hajj regulations, emphasizing heavy penalties for non-compliance during the pilgrimage season.
According to a statement from the Saudi Ministry of Interior, overstaying after visa expiry can result in fines of up to 50,000 Saudi riyals, along with a prison sentence of up to six months and subsequent deportation.
“The Hajj rules must be followed and observed by the pilgrims and residents without any exemption,” added the statement of the Saudi interior ministry.
It is informed that the Hajj rules have been set up in order to make sure that the entire procedure takes place smoothly without facing any inconvenience. They are aimed at ensuring the safety and security of Hajj operation.
The ministry has also advised the pilgrims with guidelines before performing Hajj 2026. It includes the routes inside the Grand Mosque, the entrance, and movement paths of Tawaf and Sa’i.
The concerned authorities focused on the provision of wheelchairs and electric carts for disabled pilgrims, asking worshippers not to occupy spaces allotted to walking in the walking zone for rituals.
It was advised to wear masks by pilgrims during crowded periods, especially within the premises of the Grand Mosque, following instructions provided.
It was also reemphasized by the ministry that entry into Makkah or holy places without permission was illegal and was punishable.
Hajj operation enters final phase as majority of Pakistani Hajj pilgrims reach Saudi Arabia
Meanwhile, a total of 78,929 Pakistani pilgrims have safely arrived in Saudi Arabia under the government Hajj scheme, officials said, as the ongoing Hajj flight operation continues across multiple phases.
According to data, more than two-thirds of the total pilgrims who will be performing Hajj with government arrangements have arrived, while the rest 39,905 are scheduled to leave for Saudi Arabia within the next few days.
The Hajj operation is being carried out through a coordinated flying schedule comprising 468 scheduled flights being arranged through PIA, Airblue, SereneAir, Saudi Airline and other Saudi national carriers, officials informed.
Out of these flights, a total of 313 flights have been completed as of now, including 282 that landed in Jeddah and 186 flew to Madinah.
Meanwhile, officials said the total number of Hajj flight operations would soon come to an end as there are only eight more days left in the process. The last flight would leave on May 21.
Further, officials informed that a total number of 73,759 pilgrims are at present in Makkah, whereas 34,200 arrived from Madinah to Makkah after performing Ziyarat.
The government has deployed 1,402 Hajj assistants to facilitate Pakistani pilgrims in Saudi Arabia, ensuring logistical and welfare support throughout their stay.
