Bangladesh Ministry of Religious Affairs on Friday warned all Bangladeshi hajjis not to perform holy Hajj without a valid permit, reiterating Saudi government’s newly introduced heavy penalties and immediate deportation rules.
Saudi Arabia has announced strict penalties for individuals attempting to perform Hajj without proper permits , in a move aimed at strengthening security and crowd control during the pilgrimage season.
Colonel Talal bin Shalhoub, spokesperson for the Saudi Interior Ministry, confirmed the penal provisions at press conference in Jeddah on Thursday, official SPA news agency reports from Jeddah.
The penalties target those entering or staying in Mecca or other Muslim holy sites without a valid permit, particularly holders of ‘visit visas’.
According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), fines of up to SAR 20,000 will be imposed on individuals caught performing or attempting to perform Hajj without a permit. Those aiding violators — including visa sponsors, transporters, or anyone providing accommodation — face fines of up to SAR 1,00,000 per person involved.
Even vehicles used in such efforts may be confiscated by court order, the SPA added.
Meanwhile, foreign nationals found guilty of such violations will be deported and banned from entering Saudi Arabia for ten years. These measures will be in effect from Dhul-Qi’dah 1 to Dhul-Hijjah 14 (April 29 to June 10, 2025).
“The government of Saudi Arabia has adopted a strict stance this year to ensure organised Hajj operations. Unauthorised participation not only risks legal action but also threatens the diplomatic relationship between our countries,” says Religious Affairs Adviser AFM Khalid Hossain.
Bangladeshis have also been asked not to aid others in bypassing the rules by offering transport, housing, or logistical support, he added.
Highlighting the stakes, the religious adviser noted that over 35 lakh Bangladeshis live and work in Saudi Arabia, contributing the largest share of Bangladesh’s remittance. A total of 87,100 Bangladeshis are scheduled to perform Hajj in 2025.