KUWAIT CITY, Nov 21: The Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs has focused its attention on Hajj campaigns following the discovery of violations in the registration process, specifically concerning individuals who wish to perform Hajj but are not registered as administrators in certain campaigns.

The ministry emphasized that any campaign found violating the regulations and laws, such as registering pilgrims who are not officially in the system or who have not been nominated as administrators, will have their Hajj campaign licenses revoked, and their activities suspended. It was noted that some campaigns have been making appointments with unregistered pilgrims to list them as administrators, which constitutes a clear violation of the rules.

A circular issued by Sattam Al-Muzain, Director of the Hajj and Umrah Affairs Department, addressed licensed Hajj campaigns. The circular referenced the recent decision by Saudi Arabian authorities to impose a fine of 10,000 Saudi riyals on anyone attempting to perform Hajj without a valid permit. It also mentioned a statement issued by the Saudi Arabian Council of Senior Scholars on April 26, 2024, which confirmed that performing Hajj without a permit is not permissible and is considered a sinful act. Those unable to obtain a permit due to national regulations are deemed incapable of performing the pilgrimage.

The circular further emphasized compliance with the Hajj and Umrah Department's regulations, aligning with Saudi authorities' guidelines. It stressed that any campaign found making appointments with unregistered or non-nominated pilgrims to list them as administrators would face the risk of having its license revoked, with a possible suspension of its ability to organize Hajj trips.

The ministry urged all campaigns to adhere strictly to the regulations to avoid facing legal consequences.