I remember back in 2019, a relative of mine, Bilal, who was performing Hajj for the first time, ended up with a SAR 10,000 fine just because he didn’t get the proper Hajj permit. Not only was it financially devastating, but it also took a mental toll during what was supposed to be one of the most spiritually uplifting times of his life.
Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam, and millions travel from around the world each year to fulfill this sacred duty. But here’s the truth: Hajj violations can lead to major fines, legal issues, and in some cases, deportation.
And in 2025, with Saudi Arabia tightening up on crowd control, health protocols, and ID verification, it’s more important than ever to know the rules.
This blog will help you steer clear of Hajj violations, big or small, with real stories, accurate data, and tips straight from the ground.
1. Performing Hajj Without a Permit
Let’s get this one out of the way because it’s one of the most common Hajj violations.
Fine: Up to SAR 10,000 for residents, and SAR 50,000 for repeat offenders or those assisting violators.
Saudi authorities have introduced a strict digital permit system to control overcrowding. If you attempt to enter the holy sites without a valid permit, you could be fined, detained, or even banned for years.
One Reddit user shared that his friend was caught at a checkpoint near Mina without a permit. He spent 8 hours in holding and was fined on the spot. Therefore, always double-check the official Absher app or go through an authorized Hajj agency to confirm your permit is issued.
Read This Blog: How to Stay Safe from Fake Hajj Visas 2025
2. Using a Tourist or Business Visa to Sneak Into Hajj
Fine: Immediate deportation, up to 10 years ban from re-entering Saudi Arabia.
Many think they can fly to Makkah on a tourist visa, blend in with the crowd, and perform Hajj. This is not just illegal; it’s also deeply irresponsible given the pressure on infrastructure during Hajj season.
Analysis: This violation grew during the initial years of the tourist e-visa introduction in 2019. In 2022 alone, over 400 people were caught trying to enter Mina with the wrong visa.
Personal Take: I once met a family at a rest stop who had traveled from Indonesia on a business visa. They thought they could perform Hajj because their travel agent told them so. At the checkpoint, they were pulled aside, interrogated, and eventually deported.
3. Bringing in Unauthorized Baggage or Items
Fine: Varies from SAR 500 to 5,000 depending on the item.
Common Hajj violations include carrying cooking gear, flammable materials, or oversized luggage into tents at Mina, Arafat, or Muzdalifah.
The Saudi Civil Defense prohibits certain items for safety reasons. Crowded tents and shared spaces make it critical to follow packing rules.
I saw a Pakistani uncle fined SAR 2,000 in Mina for using a gas stove inside the tent to make chai. While well-intentioned, the rules are in place for everyone’s safety.
4. Violating Health and Hygiene Rules
Fine: SAR 1,000 to SAR 10,000
Since COVID-19, Saudi Arabia has enforced health protocols as part of Hajj regulations. Not wearing a mask in certain areas, avoiding routine checkups, or refusing medical screening can lead to fines.
Pro Insight: During Hajj 2023, there were fines issued for pilgrims refusing temperature checks and health screenings at Jamarat.
What to Do: Always carry a mask, hand sanitizer, and your vaccination record. Don’t ignore health alerts sent via the official Sehaty app.
Read This Blog: Hajj Health Requirements You Must Know Before Arrival
5. Setting Up Camp in Unauthorized Areas
Fine: SAR 2,000 to SAR 10,000
Muzdalifah and Mina have designated zones for each group of pilgrims. Setting up tents or resting outside these marked zones is considered as Hajj violations. One of my friends from Jordan got fined in 2022 for laying down outside the marked white border in Muzdalifah, thinking it was okay since the area was free.
Tip: Your group leader or mutawwif usually knows the assigned area. Stick with your group.
6. Disrespecting the Sacred Environment
Fine: SAR 500 to SAR 1,000
Hajj violation includes littering in Mina, damaging facilities, or engaging in loud arguments. Hajj isn’t just about rituals; it’s about spiritual cleanliness too.
Personal Note: In 2018, I saw a group of youth get into a shouting match near the Jamaraat bridge. Not only were they fined, but they were also removed from the area for the day.
7. Unauthorized Vehicle Use Inside Holy Sites
Fine: SAR 10,000 and vehicle confiscation
During the core Hajj days, personal vehicles are strictly banned in the Hajj zones unless you have a special permit.
Hajj violations related to transport cause huge disruptions and are severely penalized.
My Advice: Use the authorized shuttle buses and trains arranged by your Hajj group. If you’re caught driving without permission, the authorities won’t hesitate.
8. Breaking the Ihram Rules Knowingly
Fine: Religious penalty (damm/fidyah) or expiation, and fines depending on severity
This includes:
- Wearing stitched clothing for men
- Using scented products
- Cutting nails or hair
I personally forgot and used perfumed soap once while in Ihram in 2015. I had to perform a damm (sacrifice). Not a fine per se, but definitely a costly lesson.
Reminder: Pack unscented toiletries, and have a checklist ready for Ihram do’s and don’ts.
Use This Checklist: Essential Hajj Packing Checklist 2025
9. Commercial Photography or Media Work Without Permission
Fine: SAR 50,000 or more
If you’re a content creator planning to film, vlog, or even livestream during Hajj, you need special permissions from the Ministry of Hajj and Ministry of Media. In 2021, a YouTuber was fined and banned from entering Saudi Arabia for 5 years for filming commercial content without clearance.
Tip: Casual pictures are allowed, but respect the privacy of other pilgrims and avoid excessive filming.
10. Selling or Reselling Hajj Slots or Services Illegally
Fine: SAR 50,000 – SAR 100,000, jail time, and business closure
Black market Hajj packages are on the rise. If you’re caught selling fake Hajj packages or slots, expect serious legal action. I once saw a notice on a community WhatsApp group advertising a last-minute Hajj spot. When we reported it to the local consulate, they confirmed it was part of a scam ring.
Always Book With: Authorized Hajj operators listed on the Nusuk Hajj platform.
Final Word: Your Hajj Is Too Sacred to Risk
Hajj 2025 is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many. While most pilgrims have good intentions, ignorance of the rules can cost you dearly — not just in riyals, but in lost time, emotional stress, and spiritual disappointment.
Remember this: If it feels like a shortcut, it’s probably Hajj violation.
So research. Prepare. Ask questions. And most importantly, follow the path laid out with sincerity and care. May your Hajj be accepted, safe, and full of blessings (minus the fines).
