Royal Commission sets draft Hajj transport rules with fines and disqualification penalties

The Royal Commission for Makkah and the Holy Sites has issued draft regulations for Hajj transportation services. Violations may result in fines of SR150 to SR100,000, temporary disqualification from Hajj operations for one to three seasons, or permanent revocation of the operating permit, depending on the severity of the breach.

All service providers must obtain a permit from the Pilgrim Transportation Guidance Center to operate within the designated Hajj areas. Applications, including the number of buses and compliance with the center’s requirements, open annually on 1 Jumada al-Thani for 60 days and must be submitted electronically. Providers must submit all required documents by 15 Shawwal, with possible extensions to the end of Shawwal.

In case of vehicle breakdowns, providers must arrange alternative transport within one hour in cities and suburbs, and within two hours outside cities, or the authority will provide it at the provider’s expense. Providers must also ensure enough qualified technicians are available to maintain buses and ensure smooth operation throughout the Hajj season, following the center’s standards.