The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has cautioned Nigerian intending pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj exercise that anyone caught performing the holy pilgrimage without a valid Hajj visa will face severe penalties, including a fine of SR20,000 (about ₦8.15 million) and imprisonment.
The warning was issued during a virtual meeting between the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to review preparations ahead of next year’s pilgrimage. The session was presided over by Dr. Rania Adham of the Saudi Ministry of Hajj.
According to Saudi authorities, only pilgrims with official Hajj visas will be granted access to perform the rites, while those with tourist or other categories of visas will be barred and punished if found violating the rules.
NAHCON officials, who attended the session, assured that they are working closely with Saudi authorities to ensure a smooth and well-coordinated pilgrimage for Nigerian faithful.
The warning comes as part of Saudi Arabia’s stricter enforcement measures to regulate the Hajj exercise and manage the large influx of worshippers expected in 2026.
