Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – Individuals involved in unauthorized Hajj-related activities in Saudi Arabia risk fines of up to 50,000 Saudi Riyals and imprisonment of up to two years, Minister for Lands, Regional Government and Religious Affairs, Hon. Hamat N.K. Bah, has warned.
The minister issued the warning while responding to questions in the National Assembly about the role of Gambian students residing in Mecca and Medina in supporting Gambian pilgrims during the annual Hajj pilgrimage.
Bah explained that Hajj operations are strictly regulated by Saudi authorities and that only individuals with the necessary accreditation are permitted to provide services to pilgrims.
“Saudi Arabia has very strict rules. Once you are found involved in anything related to Hajj without authorization, you will be fined 50,000 riyals or face two years’ imprisonment,” he told lawmakers.
He noted that the regulations apply to everyone, including government officials and diplomats, as Saudi authorities continue to enforce strict controls over Hajj-related activities.
Addressing concerns about the participation of Gambian students, Bah said they cannot simply be granted access to assist pilgrims during Hajj because involvement in pilgrimage operations is tightly controlled.
According to the minister, students interested in participating must apply through their universities, as Saudi Arabia provides limited opportunities for involvement through academic institutions.
Bah also rejected claims that students from neighboring countries are given special privileges to take part in Hajj activities, describing such assertions as inaccurate.
He assured lawmakers that the Gambian government remains in regular contact with Saudi authorities to ensure that Gambian pilgrims receive the support and assistance they need during the annual pilgrimage.
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