Saudi Arabia cracks down on unauthorized Hajj pilgrims, visa overstayers

Saudi Arabian security agencies have intensified their crackdown on illegal expatriates and unauthorized Hajj pilgrims. Individuals caught without a Hajj permit face a fine of SR10,000. Recruiters and employers who delay reporting the departure of their recruits or employees after the expiration of entry visas will also face penalties.

The Saudi General Directorate of Public Security also announced that failing to report the timely departure of visitors can result in fines up to SR50,000 or imprisonment for up to six months. Violators will be deported. The directorate noted that violations of residency, labor, and border security laws can be reported via hotlines: 911 for Mecca, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, and 999 for other regions of the kingdom.

Recently, Saudi authorities have arrested thousands of illegal foreigners in nationwide campaigns targeting violators of residency, labor, and border security laws. The latest warning is part of heightened measures against unauthorized pilgrims ahead of the annual Islamic Hajj pilgrimage.


From May 23, holders of any type of visit visa are prohibited from entering or residing in Mecca until June 21. Saudi authorities clarified that visit visas do not serve as Hajj permits and urged visa holders to avoid traveling to Mecca during this period.