2026 hajj: Saudi Arabia warns Nigerian visa violators face N8.15m fine, jail
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has warned intending Nigerian pilgrims for the 2026 hajj that anyone caught performing the holy pilgrimage without a valid visa will face a fine of SR20,000 (about N8.15 million) and possible imprisonment.
The warning was issued during a virtual meeting between the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and the Saudi ministry of hajj and umrah to review preparations for next year’s pilgrimage.
The session was presided over by Rania Adham of the Saudi ministry.
In a statement, NAHCON said the Saudi authorities emphasised strict compliance with all deadlines, stressing that they would not be extended.
Key deadlines highlighted include November 2025 signing of the memorandum of understanding (MoU), 4 January 2026, the Last date for camp booking payments and service contract confirmations and 1 February 2026, deadline for uploading transport and accommodation contracts on the Nusuk Masar portal as well as 1 Shawwal 1447 AH, which is the final deadline for visa issuance.
The Saudi officials expressed concern over Nigeria’s repeated delays in previous Hajj preparations, warning that such lapses could negatively affect the welfare and overall experience of pilgrims.
They further directed that all Hadaya (sacrificial rites) payments and accommodation bookings must be processed exclusively through the Nusuk Masar platform.
In response, Abdullahi Usman, NAHCON chairman, assured the Saudi authorities of the commission’s full cooperation.
He pledged that NAHCON would work closely with partners to ensure compliance with all deadlines and requirements, in order to guarantee a smooth and well-coordinated 2026 Hajj for Nigerian pilgrims.
