Saudi Arabian authorities have announced strict new rules for the 2025 Hajj. Pilgrims are now banned from taking photos, making videos, and displaying political or sectarian symbols at key holy sites.
The country’s Ministry of Interior released a statement reminding pilgrims that such actions can distract others and disrupt the peace of the pilgrimage.
The restrictions cover all forms of photography—both with mobile phones and professional cameras—at Masjid al-Haram in Makkah, Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah, and the major Hajj sites: Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah.
Pilgrims are also banned from carrying or displaying flags, banners, or signs representing political parties, national pride, or religious sects.
Authorities Warn of Penalties for Rule-Breaking Pilgrims
The ministry made it clear that pilgrims must follow the new rules to preserve the sacred nature of Hajj.
“Pilgrims are strongly encouraged to adhere to the regulations and cooperate fully with authorities to ensure that Hajj 2025 is conducted in a peaceful, orderly, and spiritually enriching environment,” the statement said.
Security officers will be stationed across the Hajj sites to monitor and enforce the new rules. Any violation may result in removal from the sites or further penalties.
The statement continued: “The Hajj is a sacred period devoted to worship, humility and unity. Any action that conflicts with these principles will not be allowed.”
Saudi Arabia receives millions of pilgrims yearly for the annual Hajj, and the authorities say these measures are necessary to maintain the spiritual focus and safety of everyone.
Nigerian Pilgrims Warned: No Permit, No Hajj
On Monday, a Nigerian official in Riyadh warned Nigerian pilgrims to strictly follow the new rules. Ibrahim Umar, Charge de Affaires at Nigeria’s embassy in Saudi Arabia, said pilgrims without official Hajj permits would face serious punishment.
According to him, “Any pilgrim found performing the Hajj without a valid permit may face a fine of 100,000 riyals, deportation, and a 10-year entry ban.”
He asked all Nigerian pilgrims to respect the kingdom’s laws and focus on their spiritual duties.
Many Nigerian pilgrims travel with personal gadgets, including smartphones and video equipment. If you’re preparing for Hajj and need a simple, compact Qibla compass and prayer mat set, it’s ideal for quiet devotion without breaking rules.
Also, a travel-sized Islamic prayer time digital watch can help pilgrims stay on track with their daily prayers during the journey.
Pilgrims are advised to stay informed, travel light, and obey all local guidelines to make their Hajj experience safe and fulfilling.
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