The Saudi Arabian authorities have proscribed photography, political chants and flag displays at the holy sites during the 2025 hajj.
In a statement issued by its ministry of interior, the kingdom said pilgrims must not take photographs or record videos at Masjid al-Haram in Makkah, Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah, or the key hajj sites in Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah.
The ministry said the restriction applies to mobile phones and professional cameras, and warned against displaying flags or banners representing political, national, or sectarian identities.
Officials have restated that such actions could undermine the spiritual atmosphere of hajj and risk sowing 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 reads.
“Security personnel will be deployed throughout the pilgrimage period to monitor and enforce these regulations.
“The Hajj is a sacred period devoted to worship, humility and unity. Any action that conflicts with these principles will not be allowed.”
On Monday, Ibrahim Umar, charge de affaires at the Nigerian embassy in Riyad, said pilgrims performing the hajj without permit risk a fine of 100,000 riyals, deportation and a 10-year ban.
Umar asked Nigerian pilgrims to obey the kingdom’s laws to avoid jeopardising their spiritual journey.
