2026 Hajj: Visa violators risk N8.15m fine, jail

2026 Hajj: Visa violators risk N8.15m fine, jail

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has warned Nigerian intending pilgrims that anyone caught performing the 2026 Hajj without a valid visa will face a fine of SR20,000 (N8.15m) and imprisonment.

The warning came during a virtual meeting between the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, which reviewed preparations for next year’s pilgrimage.

Saudi officials stressed that all deadlines — including MoU signing in November, camp booking by January 4, 2026, and visa issuance by 1st of Shawwal — will not be shifted.

They also insisted that Hadaya (sacrificial rites) payments and accommodation bookings must be processed exclusively through the Nusuk Masar portal.

NAHCON Chairman, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman, pledged full compliance to ensure a smooth and well-coordinated 2026 Hajj for Nigerian pilgrims.