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UAE Slaps Dh50K Fine on Unauthorized Hajj Travel

Thinking of heading to Hajj without a permit? UAE authorities say think again—or risk paying Dh50,000 and missing out completely.

  • Publish date: Monday، 26 May 2025
UAE Slaps Dh50K Fine on Unauthorized Hajj Travel

Planning to wing it to Hajj this year without a permit? The UAE government has just made it clear—that could cost you a hefty Dh50,000 fine.

Read More: Here's What UAE Pilgrims Need to Do Before Hajj 2025

The General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat (GAIAZ) confirmed that only pilgrims with an official Hajj permit approved by the authority will be allowed to travel. The move comes in line with the UAE Cabinet's Hajj and Umrah System, designed to ensure a safe, transparent, and fair pilgrimage experience.

“The permit system is essential for maintaining order and ensuring every approved pilgrim receives the services they’ve been promised,” the authority said.

Authorities are urging residents not to risk their safety, finances, or time by attempting the pilgrimage through unofficial channels. Anyone caught violating the rules will be held fully accountable.

One of the key reasons for this strict measure? Overcrowding. The authority says unauthorized pilgrims showing up at UAE-designated areas in Makkah are disrupting logistics and diminishing the quality of the official pilgrimage experience.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia is also cracking down. The Saudi Ministry of Interior announced that anyone caught performing Hajj without a valid permit could face a fine of up to SAR20,000 (roughly Dh20,000). That includes visit visa holders who attempt to enter Makkah starting from April 29 (Dhul-Qi'dah 1) through to Dhul Hijjah 14—falling around June 10 or 11, depending on the moon sighting.

And it’s not just pilgrims under scrutiny—visa sponsors who fail to report when expats overstay or leave unlawfully may be fined SAR50,000, sentenced to six months in jail, and face deportation.

Bottom line: this Hajj season, the message is loud and clear—go official or don’t go at all.

Read More: Updated Regulation for Umrah Pilgrims Coming to KSA

Read More: UAE Reminds Hajj Pilgrims with These Precautions

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