Saudi Arabia Stops Over 269,000 Unauthorized Pilgrims from Entering Mecca for Hajj 2025

Saudi Arabia has barred more than 269,000 people without proper Hajj permits from entering Mecca, as the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage officially begins. Authorities are strictly enforcing new rules to reduce overcrowding, which has previously caused deadly stampedes.

Why This Matters

The Saudi government has taken strong measures to manage crowd control during this year’s pilgrimage. In May, the kingdom imposed visa restrictions, banning certain visa types from 14 countries, mainly Arab nations, to help regulate the number of visitors.

Hajj 2025: Key Updates

• Over 1.5 million international pilgrims are participating this year, with additional local Muslims also joining.

• Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior launched a campaign under the Arabic hashtag “No Hajj without permit.”

• Violators entering Mecca without a permit face fines of up to 20,000 SAR (around $5,300).

Focus on Safety and Regulation

Saudi authorities warned pilgrims months in advance not to overstay or enter illegally. Last year, a similar operation led to nearly 300,000 unregistered people being turned away.

To improve safety, the government has spent billions on Hajj infrastructure and crowd control systems. These upgrades aim to avoid past tragedies caused by heat and stampedes. Children under 12 are also banned from attending.

Heavy Penalties for Rule Breakers

Lieutenant General Mohammed bin Abdullah Al-Bassami, Director-General of Public Security, confirmed that 269,678 residents were sent back from Mecca’s checkpoints for lacking valid permits.

Interior Ministry spokesperson, Colonel Talal bin Shalhoub, added that anyone who helps transport unauthorized pilgrims faces:

• Up to 6 months in jail

• Fines up to 50,000 SAR

• Vehicle confiscation

• Deportation (for foreign nationals)

• Ban from re-entry

Today’s Key Hajj Ritual: Standing at Mount Arafat

Today, pilgrims are performing Wuquf (standing) at Mount Arafat, one of the most important rituals in Hajj. Muslims around the world not attending the pilgrimage often observe a voluntary fast in solidarity.

Why It’s Important for Pilgrims

Many pilgrims spend thousands of dollars to perform Hajj, a pillar of Islam. Those without permits, despite good intentions, are turned away. However, Islamic teachings say that if someone cannot complete the Hajj, they are religiously excused.