In a significant enforcement action ahead of the annual Hajj pilgrimage, Saudi Arabian authorities have prevented 269,678 individuals lacking valid Hajj permits from entering the holy city of Mecca. This move is part of a broader initiative to ensure the safety and organization of the pilgrimage, which is expected to draw over 1.4 million authorized participants this year.
The crackdown comes in the wake of last year’s Hajj, during which over 1,300 pilgrims died, many due to extreme heat and overcrowding. Officials have attributed a significant portion of these fatalities to unauthorized pilgrims who lacked access to proper accommodations and services.
To prevent a recurrence, the Saudi government has intensified measures to control the influx of pilgrims. Lieutenant General Mohammed Al-Omari emphasized the seriousness of the enforcement, stating, “The pilgrim is in our sight, and anyone who disobeys is in our hands.”
Penalties for attempting to perform Hajj without a permit are severe. Violators face fines up to $5,000, deportation, and bans on future entry. These sanctions apply not only to foreign nationals but also to Saudi residents without proper authorization. To date, over 23,000 residents have been penalized, and licenses for 400 Hajj service companies have been revoked for non-compliance.
The Ministry of Interior has implemented strict entry regulations, effective April 29, 2025. Only individuals with official Hajj visas, Mecca-issued residency permits, or authorized work permits are allowed entry into the city during the pilgrimage season. Expatriates without valid Hajj permits have been barred from entering Mecca since April 23.
To facilitate compliance, Saudi Arabia has digitized the Hajj permit process. Pilgrims can now secure permits through platforms such as Absher Individuals and Muqeem, both connected to the unified digital system known as Tasreeh. This streamlined integration improves transparency and allows authorities to verify documentation in real time.
In addition to regulatory measures, the government has introduced technological innovations to enhance safety. For the first time, drones are being deployed for surveillance and monitoring, as well as for extinguishing fires. Furthermore, efforts to mitigate the effects of extreme heat include planting 10,000 trees, installing 400 water coolers, and deploying misting machines. The use of “white roads,” designed to absorb less heat, is also being expanded.
These comprehensive measures reflect Saudi Arabia’s commitment to ensuring a safe and spiritually fulfilling Hajj experience. By enforcing strict permit regulations and leveraging technology, the Kingdom aims to protect pilgrims and uphold the sanctity of one of Islam’s most significant religious obligations.
