16 fined for trespassing on Saudi holy sites ahead of restricted hajj

Jul 27, 2020

Ahead of a drastically scaled down hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, 16 people have been fined for trespassing at the holy sites, Saudi authorities said. 

The violators were each fined 10,000 Saudi riyals ($2,666), the Saudi Public Security body announced, according to Arab News. The Ministry of Interior announced earlier this month that anyone entering the holy sites of Mina, Muzdalifah and Arafat during this year’s hajj without a permit will be fined. 

One of the five pillars of Islam, the hajj ritual is required of all Muslims who are able to make the journey to the Muslim holy city of Mecca at least once in their lifetimes. The yearly pilgrimage typically draws some two million people from around the world.

The coronavirus pandemic has meant far fewer will perform this year’s hajj. Only 1,000 are allowed to attend, 70% of which are foreign residents of Saudi Arabia. As a “token of appreciation for their role in providing care,” preference was given to medical and security professionals who have recovered from COVID-19. 

Pilgrims are asked to self-quarantine before arriving. A mobile clinic will accompany them during their travel to the holy sites, the Saudi Press Agency reported. Rather than drink from the Zamzam well in Mecca, worshippers will be given plastic bottles containing the holy water.