Saudi Arabia Imposes Massive Fines for Hajj Transport Violations

Saudi Arabia is taking bold steps to modernize and regulate Hajj transportation, one of the world’s largest annual mass-mobility events.

With millions of pilgrims visiting Mecca each year, the kingdom is introducing strict rules and penalties to ensure safety, reliability, and accountability across all transport services during the sacred pilgrimage.

Strict Regulatory Framework for Hajj Transport

The Royal Commission for Mecca and the Holy Sites has issued draft regulations aimed at controlling transportation services operating during Hajj. These rules are designed to enforce compliance and maintain high standards for operators serving pilgrims across Mecca and its surrounding holy sites.

Heavy Penalties for Violations

Under the proposed framework, individuals or companies that breach the regulations could face fines starting from SR150 up to SR100,000, depending on the severity of the offense.

The draft clearly states that no transport provider can operate in designated hajj quota news zones without obtaining an official permit from the Pilgrim Transportation Guidance Centre

Annual Application Process

Service providers must submit a detailed annual application to participate in Hajj transport. The application should include fleet size, technical specifications, and operational readiness. Submission opens each year on the first day of Jumada al-Thani and remains open for 60 days. All applications are required to be submitted electronically through an approved platform.

Additionally, all supporting documents must be submitted no later than the 15th of Shawwal, though the guidance centre may extend this deadline until the end of Shawwal if necessary.

Operational Reliability Requirements

Operational efficiency and reliability are central to the draft regulations. Transport providers must arrange immediate replacement vehicles in case of a breakdown — within one hour in cities and suburbs, and within two hours outside urban areas. If operators fail to comply, authorities may deploy alternative vehicles meeting approved standards, with all costs charged to the provider.

Enhancing Safety and Service Quality

The draft regulations highlight Saudi Arabia’s commitment to enhancing pilgrim safety, improving transportation services, and ensuring smooth operations during Hajj.

By enforcing stricter compliance and heavier penalties, the kingdom aims to provide a more secure and reliable transport experience for millions of pilgrims each year.

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