Pilgrims are being warned by the Jawazat to leave Saudi Arabia before their special Hajj visas expire, reports Saudi Gazette. The General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) sent out warnings against pilgrims overstaying their visas, adding that they’re subject to legal penalizations.

Hajj pilgrims aren’t allowed to go outside of Makkah and Madinah

Lt. Col. Badr Al- Qerani, spokesman of Jawazat, was quoted by the media saying that no Haj pilgrims should move outside of the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, especially partaking in work in any parts of Saudi.

The Haj regulations stipulate that the pilgrims can stay on in the Kingdom only up to the last day of expiry of their visas

Lt. Col. Badr Al- Qerani, spokesman of Jawazat (SPA)

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Those who show support to overstayers can also face penalties

It would make sense why Hajj visas are for the sole purpose of the week-long pilgrimage. Having millions of international pilgrims from all over the world all consolidated in the Kingdom means that authorities have to be on watch and ensure people are still complying with the legalities of visa statuses.

Al-Qeraini also urged Saudi residents and expats not to extend support to overstayers as they too, can be subject to penalties.

Dear pilgrim:
Leaving the country after performing Hajj prevents you from being legally penalized#Hajj2018 pic.twitter.com/y8iE2R13Ox

— الجوازات السعودية (@AljawazatKSA) August 27, 2018