حج Permit

What Does حج Permit Mean in Detail?

The حج permit system is a critical safety and crowd management measure implemented by Saudi Arabia. For international حجاج, the حج visa itself serves as the permit, issued through their country's quota system and authorized حج operators. For domestic حجاج (Saudi citizens and residents), the permit is obtained through the Nusuk platform registration process. The permit is now predominantly digital, linked to the حاجی's identity documents. During حج season, Saudi authorities establish checkpoints on all roads leading to مکہ مکرمہ and the holy sites, where permits are verified. Pilgrims without valid permits are turned back and may face fines (up to SAR 10,000 for repeat offenders) or deportation for foreign residents. The system was implemented to prevent overcrowding — historically, unregulated حج attendance led to dangerous stampedes and infrastructure overload. The permit is linked to specific accommodation, transport, and service providers.