Saudi Arabia threatens Hajj, Umrah companies with massive fines for visa violations

Saudi Arabia is imposing strict penalties on Hajj and Umrah service companies, threatening fines of up to 100,000 Saudi Riyals (approximately $26,660 USD) for failing to report pilgrims who overstay their authorized visas. This significant financial penalty, equivalent to nearly half a billion Indonesian Rupiah, aims to ensure compliance with the Kingdom's regulations.

The Public Security Directorate in Saudi Arabia issued a stern warning, as reported by Saudi Gazette. The fines will be levied against companies and institutions that delay notifying the relevant authorities about any Hajj or Umrah pilgrim remaining in the Kingdom beyond their permitted stay. The penalty amount can be multiplied depending on the number of individuals found to be in violation.

Authorities are urging the public to report any breaches of residency, labor, or border security regulations. They have provided emergency contact numbers for different regions within Saudi Arabia. The authorities have assured that all reports will be handled with complete confidentiality, and informants will bear no legal responsibility.

Meanwhile, in Indonesia, the Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenhaj) has reiterated its commitment to preventing non-procedural or illegal Hajj practices. This initiative is intended to maintain order, security, and the safety of pilgrims during the Hajj pilgrimage for the year 1447 Hijriah/2026 AD.