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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