Saudi Arabia has significantly tightened its regulations for Hajj transportation as part of a new draft framework introduced by the Royal Commission for Makkah and the Holy Sites. The move aims to eliminate unlicensed operators and ensure the safety and reliability of travel for millions of pilgrims.
In a major move to streamline the 2026 Hajj operations, Saudi authorities have unveiled a comprehensive set of draft regulations governing transportation. These rules target service providers, individuals, and anyone facilitating unauthorized travel to the Holy Sites.
The Penalties: Financial and Operational
The new framework introduces a tiered penalty system based on the severity of the violation:
- Financial Fines: Violators can face fines ranging from SAR 150 to SAR 100,000. At current exchange rates, the maximum fine of SAR 100,000 translates to approximately ₹22,50,000 to ₹24,20,000.
- License Suspension: Service providers found in breach of operational standards may be disqualified from participating in Hajj operations for one to three seasons.
- Permanent Revocation: For the most severe or repeated offenses, the authority reserved the right to permanently cancel operating permits.
- Deportation & Entry Ban: Foreign residents caught transporting illegal pilgrims face deportation and a 10-year ban on re-entering the Kingdom.
Strict Operational Standards
The regulations aren't just about fines; they demand high efficiency from authorized providers:
- Mandatory Permits: No individual or entity can operate Hajj transport without a permit from the Pilgrim Transportation Guidance Centre.
- Breakdown Response: If a bus breaks down, providers must supply a replacement within one hour inside cities/suburbs and within two hours in non-urban areas. Failure to do so allows the authority to arrange transport at the provider’s expense.
- Qualified Staff: Every provider must deploy a sufficient number of certified technicians to ensure the fleet remains roadworthy throughout the season.
How and When to Apply
Companies wishing to provide transport services must apply electronically through the designated platform. Applications open annually on the 1st of Jumada Al-Thani and remain open for 60 days. All technical documentation must be submitted by the 15th of Shawwal.
