Saudi Arabia has rolled out smart mobile passport counters to speed up the arrival process for Hajj pilgrims.
These mobile units have been deployed at airports, seaports, and land borders, aiming to provide a quicker and smoother entry experience.
What’s new?
- Instant processing: Pilgrims can now complete immigration procedures on arrival without long waiting times.
- Advanced security: The counters are equipped with biometric verification and facial recognition systems.
- Fast verification: Integrated digital systems enable swift and efficient passport checks.
Special facilities
Elderly pilgrims and people with disabilities will be given priority, with dedicated services designed to reduce physical strain and improve convenience.
The initiative highlights the Saudi government’s commitment to making the Hajj journey more efficient, secure, and accessible for all.
Traveller tip:
Visitors are advised to follow Saudi customs rules and regulations to ensure a hassle-free journey.
Strict action announced against illegal Hajj in Saudi Arabia
In a separate development, the Ministry of Interior of Saudi Arabia has announced strict penalties for individuals performing Hajj without an official permit.
Strict penalties will also be applied on the people who will or are facilitating illegal pilgrims.
The penalties applied will include deportation, heavy fines and long-term entry bans.
The ministry has announced any individual caught attempting to perform or caught performing Hajj will face up to fines of up to 20,000 Saudi Riyals.
These rules will also be applied to holders of all types of visit visas who attempt to enter, enter and stay in Makkah and the holy sites during Hajj.
Even stronger penalties will be applied to those who are facilitating these violations.
Up to 100,000 Saudi riyals fine can be imposed on anyone who applies for a visit visa for individuals attempting to perform hajj illegally.
The fine can be increased depending upon the violation and the individual.
For anyone who transports or attempts to transport visit visa holders to Makkah or the holy sites the same maximum fine of 100000 riyals will be imposed.
The penalties will also be applied to those who provide any kind of shelter, including hotels, private homes and apartments or any kind of Hajj accommodations. The penalties will also be applied to whoever assists or conceals such individuals.
The fines will be multiplied depending on the number of violators involved.
Penalties other than the financial ones will also be applied. These penalties include deportation and being barred from entering Saudi Arabia for up to 10 years.
It has also been stated by the ministry that the courts might confiscate vehicles used to transport illegal pilgrims.
It has been emphasised by the officials that these measures are intended to ensure the security and safety of Hajj pilgrims. Currently, authorities are working to maintain strict order and control during the Hajj season.
