In adherence to Shariah law, the Council of Senior Scholars emphasizes the necessity of obtaining a Hajj permit. This essential requirement not only upholds religious principles but also safeguards individuals and communities, fostering their overall well-being.
Underlining the gravity of the matter, the council underscores that performing the Hajj pilgrimage without the requisite permit is strictly prohibited and deemed a transgression.
In a recent joint statement, authorities from key governmental bodies such as the Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, and the General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque underscored the significance of adhering to the permit regulations.
The statement highlights the inherent risks and challenges associated with non-compliance, emphasizing the importance of ensuring comprehensive security, healthcare, accommodation, sustenance, and other vital services for pilgrims.
Aligning the number of pilgrims with the authorized quota enables authorities to enhance service quality and ensure safety measures are effectively implemented. By mitigating issues like overcrowding, the risk of accidents and transportation disruptions is significantly reduced.
Additionally, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has issued a cautionary notice against fraudulent hajj companies that promote unauthorized services via social media platforms for the upcoming Hajj season of 2024.
To combat such illicit activities, collaborative efforts between governmental bodies and international partners are being pursued, with recent successes including the apprehension of individuals involved in scams.
Moreover, stringent penalties have been instituted to deter violations, including hefty fines and imprisonment, along with deportation and long-term entry bans for expatriates found in breach of regulations.
As such, it is imperative for both tourists and resident expatriates in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to adhere to the established permit requirements and refrain from participating in Hajj without proper authorization, in accordance with the stipulations of Shariah law and the directives of Saudi authorities.
