With Hajj 2025 expected between June 4 and June 9, Saudi Arabia has stepped up enforcement of immigration and security laws, arresting over 18,000 people in just one week. The Ministry of Interior, via the Saudi Press Agency, revealed this sweeping crackdown as part of efforts to maintain safety and order ahead of the world's largest annual religious gathering.

Over 18,000 People Arrested in One Week

In the run-up to Hajj, Saudi authorities arrested 18,407 individuals for violations related to residency, labour laws, and border security. Breaking it down:

• 12,995 were detained for violating residency regulations

• 3,512 were caught attempting illegal border crossings

• 1,900 were booked for labour-related offences

This large-scale enforcement comes in the wake of unauthorised entries that have often led to overcrowding and mismanagement during the pilgrimage season.

Majority of Illegal Entrants Were Ethiopians and Yemenis

Among those trying to enter Saudi Arabia illegally, the breakdown by nationality was as follows:

• 66% were Ethiopians

• 28% were Yemenis

• 6% from other nationalities

These individuals attempted to cross borders without proper documentation, often with the intention to stay illegally and join the pilgrimage.

Additional Offenders and Penalties for Assisting Violators

The authorities also reported that:

• 67 individuals were arrested for attempting to exit into neighbouring countries illegally.

• 21 people were detained for aiding or hiding violators, an offence taken very seriously by the Ministry.

As per the Ministry of Interior, those assisting illegal entries could face:

• Up to 15 years in jail

• Fines up to SR1 million (approximately ₹2.3 crore)

• Confiscation of vehicles and property

These harsh penalties are designed to deter networks and individuals from smuggling people into the Kingdom or offering them shelter without legal permits.

Call to Citizens to Report Violations

To reinforce national security, Saudi officials are urging all citizens and residents to report suspicious activities. The Ministry has provided specific emergency numbers for different regions:

• 911 – for Makkah and Riyadh

• 999 or 996 – for other parts of the country

This public engagement forms a part of a larger national effort to maintain law and order during Hajj season.

Why This Crackdown Matters

Saudi Arabia has always prioritised safety, crowd control, and logistical efficiency during Hajj. With millions of pilgrims arriving every year, unregistered individuals and overcrowding pose significant risks to health, safety, and infrastructure.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has personally directed strict visa and entry enforcement to ensure that only registered pilgrims with valid permits are allowed entry into Mecca and surrounding pilgrimage zones.

Visit Visa Holders Not Allowed to Perform Hajj 2025

In a significant move, the Ministry of Tourism in Saudi Arabia has reiterated that performing Hajj on a visit visa is strictly prohibited.

This comes as many foreigners try to enter the country under the pretext of tourism and later attempt to join the pilgrimage illegally.

Penalties for Unauthorized Entry into Mecca

According to Gulf News and official ministry sources:

• Anyone caught entering Mecca or Hajj zones like Mina, Arafat, Muzdalifah, or the Grand Mosque area without a valid Hajj permit will face a fine of SR10,000 (around ₹2.3 lakh).

• Repeat violations will result in doubled penalties.

This rule applies equally to citizens, residents, and tourists – no exceptions.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision: Organised, Secure, and Sacred

This crackdown and enforcement are part of Saudi Arabia’s long-term strategy to elevate the quality of religious tourism, especially during Hajj. The government has made it clear that the pilgrimage must remain:

• Orderly and safe

• Reserved only for authorised pilgrims

• Free from illegal crowding or safety hazards

Infrastructure and Safety Measures Ahead of Hajj 2025

To ensure smooth logistics, the Kingdom is also working on:

• Advanced crowd control systems

• Enhanced digital tracking for pilgrims

• Increased medical and emergency response teams

• Technology-assisted permit verification at entry points

These measures are vital for managing millions of pilgrims from around the world, all gathering in a limited geographical area for a fixed duration.

Final Words: What Pilgrims and Visitors Should Remember

• Do not attempt to perform Hajj without an official Hajj permit

• Avoid entering Saudi Arabia on a visit visa if intending to perform Hajj

• Report any violations to the appropriate authorities

Saudi Arabia’s firm stance and heavy enforcement reflect their commitment to protecting both the sanctity of the pilgrimage and the security of the nation.

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