Saudi Arabia sets April 29 deadline for Umrah pilgrims to exit the Kingdom or face fines, jail, or deportation. AI surveillance ramps up as Hajj season nears.
Saudi Arabia Warns Umrah Pilgrims to Leave by April 29 or Face Jail and Deportation
Saudi Arabia Sets April 29 Deadline for Umrah Pilgrims to Depart or Face Legal Consequences
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has issued a strict directive requiring all Umrah pilgrims to exit the country by April 29, 2025, as part of preparations for the upcoming Hajj season. Pilgrims who fail to comply with this deadline risk facing fines, imprisonment, and deportation, authorities have warned.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah emphasized that overstaying pilgrimage visas is a serious offense under Saudi law, and will be treated accordingly.
Security is a red line,” said Lt. Gen. Mohammed Abdullah Al Bassami, Director of Public Security. “Our systems are designed to ensure the dignity, safety, and efficient movement of the guests of Allah.
Saudi Arabia has adopted advanced AI-powered crowd control systems to manage the large influx of visitors during religious seasons. Officials explained that pilgrims who overstay their visas disrupt these systems and pose a threat to the country’s ability to manage crowds effectively.
Between March 27 and April 2, Saudi authorities arrested more than 18,400 individuals for violations of residency, labor, and border regulations, as part of ongoing enforcement efforts.
Penalties for Overstaying or Visa Violations:
First offense: SAR 15,000 fine (approximately $4,000) and deportation
Second offense: SAR 25,000 fine, up to 3 months in jail, and deportation
Third offense: SAR 50,000 fine, up to 6 months in jail, and deportation
Penalties for Aiding Violators:
Companies or individuals found guilty of harboring, employing, or transporting overstaying pilgrims may face:
Fines up to SAR 100,000
Jail terms
Confiscation of vehicles used
Deportation of any foreign accomplices
Pilgrimage service providers who fail to report overstaying pilgrims may also be sanctioned. Penalties for such providers start at SAR 25,000, and may escalate to SAR 100,000 for repeat violations.
Saudi authorities stressed that the safety and sanctity of the pilgrimage experience remain their top priority.
“We are committed to providing a secure and spiritually fulfilling environment for all pilgrims,” Al Bassami said. “Any violation of these rules will be met with the full force of the law.”
