Beware! Seeking donation during Hajj season can land you in jail in KSA

Saudi Arabia has announced a sentence of up to seven years in prison for pilgrims seeking donations during the Hajj season, according to a Gulf News report.

The announcement was made by Saudi Public Prosecution in a post on X where it warned Hajj pilgrims against engaging in unauthorised fundraising activities.

According to Saudi authorities, violators will face strict penalties including a seven-year jail sentence and a fine of up to SR5 million, or both.

The Saudi Public Prosecution said that seeking donations without obtaining a permit from the competent authority is strictly forbidden.

The authority resolved to take swift action against any attempts to deceive or mislead for financial gains.

This recent measure underscores the Saudi government’s determination to regulate and supervise activities during the sacred Hajj season, ensuring that pilgrims are protected from potential exploitation while upholding the sanctity and solemnity of the pilgrimage experience.

Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and is a religious duty that must be carried out by all adult Muslims who are physically and financially capable of undertaking the journey at least once in their lifetime.

The pilgrimage occurs from the 8th to the 12th (or in some cases the 13th) of Dhu Al Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar.