Saudi Arabia Enforces Strict Transport Rules Ahead of Hajj Season

Saudi Arabia’s Transport General Authority has issued a directive prohibiting all transport operators from carrying passengers to Makkah or the holy sites without a valid Hajj permit or a work/residency permit specific to Makkah, as part of nationwide efforts to regulate pilgrim movement and enhance safety during the upcoming Hajj season.

The directive, which came into effect on April 29, is aligned with the Interior Ministry’s broader strategy to control crowds and maintain order during one of the world’s largest religious gatherings. According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), violators transporting visitors on tourist or visit visas into restricted areas before June 10 will face fines of up to SR100,000 ($26,600). The penalties may also include confiscation of the vehicle, regardless of ownership.

Authorities emphasized that only licensed transport operators meeting Hajj regulations—such as proper permits, approved routes, and clearance for restricted zones—will be allowed to operate. Transport companies have been urged to fully cooperate with checkpoint personnel and security officials, with strict enforcement measures in place for non-compliance.

These rules are part of the Transport Authority’s operational plan for Hajj, aimed at facilitating safe, organized, and compliant travel for authorized pilgrims.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Transport and Logistic Services has declared full readiness across all travel sectors—air, land, sea, and rail—to support the Kingdom’s role in serving pilgrims and managing logistics at scale.

In air transport, the General Authority of Civil Aviation announced the availability of over 3 million seats on scheduled and charter flights. Matarat Holding Company has equipped 11 specialized lounges at airports, supported by 18,000 staff, and launched initiatives like “Traveler Without Baggage” and home Zamzam water delivery.

Saudia Airlines is operating over 2,000 flights with its 158-aircraft fleet, while budget carrier flynas will fly more than 120,000 pilgrims from 15 countries.

In ground transportation, 25,000 buses and 9,000 taxis have been deployed. Supervisors are stationed at 20 hubs across Makkah, Madinah, and key pilgrimage sites to monitor compliance. Road maintenance has been completed across 7,400 km, and 247 bridges have been inspected for safety.

Saudi Railways will conduct more than 2,000 trips on the Al-Mashaaer Al-Mugaddassah Metro, expected to transport over 2 million passengers. The Haramain High-Speed Railway will operate 35 electric trains connecting Makkah, Madinah, and the King Abdulaziz International Airport.

At Jeddah Islamic Port, 436 staff are overseeing the arrival of nearly 5,000 sea pilgrims. Additionally, the National Transport Safety Center will operate 24/7 with technical and human resources to manage emergencies across all transport sectors.

These integrated efforts underscore Saudi Arabia’s commitment to improving the pilgrim experience and reflect the objectives of Vision 2030 through world-class services and infrastructure.