Hajj 2025 guidelines: ?4.5 lakh fine for performing Hajj without a permit, warns Saudi Arabian government

Hajj 2025: Saudi Arabia has announced strict rules for Hajj 2025. People without a valid permit will face a fine of up to 20,000 Saudi Riyals (about ?4.5 lakh). This step is to stop unauthorized pilgrims and control the crowd. Hajj 2025 is expected to take place from 4 June to 9 June.

Those helping illegal pilgrims, like transporters and hotel owners, may be fined up to 100,000 Riyals (around ?22.7 lakh). Children below 12 years are not allowed. Pilgrims from 14 countries will get only single-entry visas. These rules aim to make Hajj safer and more organized.

Hajj 2025 Regulations & important guidelines

From April 23, 2025 (25 Shawwal 1446 AH), an official entry permit is compulsory for everyone entering Makkah, including Saudi citizens and expatriates.

1. Heavy Penalties:

• Performing Hajj without a valid permit will lead to a fine of 20,000 Saudi Riyals (approx. ?4.5 lakh).
• Helping illegal pilgrims (like providing transport or accommodation) can result in fines up to 100,000 Riyals (approx. ?22.7 lakh).

2. Age Restrictions: Children below 12 years of age are not allowed to take part in Hajj 2025.

3. Visa Rules: Pilgrims from 14 countries will be given only single-entry visas valid for 30 days. These countries are:
Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen.

Hajj 2025: Who needs a Makkah entry permit?

• Hajj Pilgrims: Must have an official Hajj permit issued through approved channels.
• Saudi Citizens: Need a permit to enter Makkah during the Hajj season, even if they live in Saudi Arabia.
• Expatriate Residents: Foreign residents in Saudi Arabia must get an entry permit for any work or personal visit to Makkah during this period.
• Other Visa Holders: Entry is not allowed with general visit visas, Umrah visas (outside Hajj season), or tourist visas.

Valid documentation for entering Makkah during Hajj 2025

• Official Hajj Permit: Required for all pilgrims performing Hajj, issued via the "Nusuk" platform.
• Permit for Work at the Holy Sites: Special work permits granted by government authorities to individuals involved in essential Hajj-related services.
• Proof of Residency in Makkah: Residents of Makkah need a valid residency ID as permit.

How to obtain a Hajj 2025 entry permit?

The process for obtaining entry permits is primarily digital:

• Nusuk Platform: All pilgrims must register and obtain Hajj permits through this platform.
• Absher Individuals Platform: Available for Saudi citizens and residents, it provides various services, including permit applications.
• Muqeem System: Specifically for expatriate residents in Saudi Arabia, this system handles residency-related matters and Makkah entry permit applications.
• Unified Permit System ¡°Tasreeh¡±: A central platform for issuing entry permits, integrating data from both Absher and Muqeem systems.

Hajj 2025: Countries with restrictions

As of February 1, 2025, citizens from the following 14 countries are eligible only for single-entry visas:

• Algeria
• Bangladesh
• Egypt
• Ethiopia
• India
• Indonesia
• Iraq
• Jordan
• Morocco
• Nigeria
• Pakistan
• Sudan
• Tunisia
• Yemen

FAQs

Q. What is the last date to apply for a Hajj visa in 2025?

Answer: Visa applications can be submitted from April 14 to May 23, 2025.

Q. What are the eligibility requirements for a Hajj visa?

Answer: Applicants must be at least 18 years old, be practising Muslims, be in good health, have sufficient financial resources, and possess a valid passport.

Q. Can I apply for a Hajj visa without a Saudi agent?

Answer: No, applications must be made through approved travel agents accredited by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj & Umrah.

Q. What is the difference between a Hajj visa and a tourist visa?

Answer: A tourist visa is for leisure, business, or family visits, while a Hajj visa is exclusively for pilgrims. The Hajj visa is valid only for the pilgrimage period.

Q. Is a Hajj visa stamped on a passport?

Answer: Yes, and the passport must have at least two blank pages for visa stamping.

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