Hajj 2025: Saudi announces SR100,000 fine for this visa offence
The Ministry of Interior also emphasised the importance of strict adherence to the rules imposed on Hajj and Umrah service providers
The Ministry of Interior in Saudi Arabia has announced a hefty fine of SR100,000 to be imposed on Hajj and Umrah service-providing companies.
The fine will be levied if the entities fail to report the departure of any Hajj or Umrah pilgrim before the expiry of their visas, according to a report in the Saudi Gazette.
However, the fines may be multiplied based on the number of Hajj and Umrah pilgrims who overstay their visas.
Read-Hajj, Umrah service: Qatar Airways introduces off-airport check-in for pilgrims
The fines will be applied if these entities fail to notify the competent authorities about any pilgrims who do not leave the Kingdom before their Hajj or Umrah visas expire.
The Ministry of Interior also emphasised the importance of strict adherence to the rules imposed on Hajj and Umrah service providers.
Saudi Arabia has also temporarily suspended the issuance of Umrah, business, and family visit visas for citizens of 14 countries. This suspension will remain in effect until mid-June, coinciding with the conclusion of the Hajj pilgrimage.
The decision to implement the suspension was made to address overcrowding and safety concerns during Hajj. April 13 will be the last day for the issuance of Umrah visas, according to Saudi authorities. No new visas will be granted to nationals of the banned countries until after the conclusion of Hajj.
The full list of the 14 affected countries includes: Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen.
