No photography, political displays allowed as Saudi Arabia enforces strict Hajj 2025 guidelines
Saudi Arabian authorities have laid down strict regulations for Hajj 2025, banning photography, political chants, and the display of flags at holy sites to maintain the pilgrimage’s spiritual integrity.
The Ministry of Interior issued a statement detailing these crucial guidelines aimed at ensuring a respectful and unified environment for all pilgrims.
The ministry made it clear that taking photographs or recording videos is strictly prohibited at Masjid al-Haram in Makkah, Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah, and at key locations such as Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah. This ban applies to all devices, including mobile phones and professional cameras.
“Display of flags or banners representing political, national, or sectarian identities is also forbidden,” the ministry emphasized, warning that such actions could disrupt the spiritual atmosphere and sow division among pilgrims.
“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 read.
Security personnel will be deployed at pilgrimage sites throughout the Hajj period to enforce these regulations. The ministry stressed that the Hajj is a sacred time for worship, humility, and unity, asserting that “any action that conflicts with these principles will not be allowed.”
Ibrahim Umar, the charge de affaires at the Nigerian embassy in Riyad, highlighted the importance of following local laws, noting that Nigerian pilgrims attempting to perform Hajj without proper permits risk harsh penalties, including fines of 100,000 riyals, deportation, and a possible 10-year ban. “Pilgrims are urged to obey the kingdom’s laws to avoid jeopardizing their spiritual journey,” he stated.
Source: TheCable
