Saudi Arabia Bans Entry to Hajj Sites for Unauthorized Vehicles

In a proactive move to ensure the safety, security, and smooth flow of pilgrims, Saudi Arabia’s Hajj security forces have enforced strict restrictions on unauthorized vehicles entering the holy sites in Makkah and Madinah. Starting Friday, May 22, 2026, the ban will remain in effect until the end of Dhul Hijjah 13, corresponding to May 30, 2026.

The measure is part of a comprehensive security plan by the Saudi Ministry of Interior to facilitate the movement of pilgrims, manage crowds, and maintain order during the annual Hajj pilgrimage season.

Press Conference to Outline Security Plans

To provide clarity on this year’s Hajj security, traffic, and organizational strategies, the ministry will hold a press conference on Friday at the Unified Security Operations Center (911) in Makkah. Hajj security commanders will outline key guidelines, instructions, and operational plans for the season.

Key participants in the briefing include:

• Lieutenant General Mohammed Al-Bassami, Director of Public Security and Chairman of the Hajj Security Committee.
• Lieutenant General Mohammed Al-Omari, Commander of the Special Emergency Forces at the Presidency of State Security.
• Major General Dr. Hamoud Al-Faraj, Director General of Civil Defense.
• Major General Dr. Saleh Al-Murabba, Commander of the Hajj Passport Forces.

Crackdown on Fraudulent Hajj Services and Violations

In a separate but related effort, Makkah security patrols arrested four Indonesian residents on Thursday for allegedly promoting fake and misleading Hajj service advertisements on social media. Authorities seized forged Hajj permits and fraudulent tools in their possession. The suspects have been detained, legal action has been taken, and they have been referred to the Public Prosecution.

Additionally, the Ministry of Interior announced the arrest of six Saudi citizens and one expatriate at Makkah entry points for violating Hajj regulations. The individuals were caught transporting 10 people without official Hajj permits, a clear breach of the rules.

Strict Penalties for Violations

The ministry has warned of severe penalties for those violating Hajj regulations, including:

• **Fines of up to **SR100,000 for transporters and accomplices.
• **Fines of up to **SR20,000 for individuals attempting to perform Hajj without permits.

• Deportation for expatriate violators.
• A 10-year ban on re-entering Saudi Arabia for repeat offenders.
• Confiscation of vehicles used to transport violators.

Authorities have emphasized that presenting official Hajj permits is mandatory for entering or remaining in Makkah and the holy sites. Permits can be displayed and verified through the Tawakkalna and Maidan apps, respectively.

Public Urged to Comply and Report Violations

The Ministry of Interior has called on all residents and visitors to strictly comply with Hajj regulations and instructions. To ensure accountability, the public is encouraged to report violations through:

• Emergency number 911 (for Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province).
• Emergency number 999 (for other regions).

A Commitment to a Safe and Organized Hajj

These measures reflect Saudi Arabia’s unwavering commitment to ensuring a safe, secure, and well-organized Hajj pilgrimage. By restricting unauthorized vehicles, cracking down on fraud, and enforcing strict penalties, authorities aim to protect pilgrims, maintain order, and uphold the sanctity of the holy sites.

As the Hajj season approaches, the ministry’s proactive and comprehensive approach sets the stage for a seamless and spiritually fulfilling experience for millions of pilgrims worldwide.