Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior has issued a firm directive ahead of Hajj 2025, imposing a strict ban on photography, videography, and any form of political or sectarian expression at key pilgrimage sites.
According to a statement from the ministry, pilgrims are forbidden from capturing images or recording videos inside the revered Masjid al-Haram in Makkah, Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah, as well as other major Hajj locations such as Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah.
Authorities noted that such activities could disturb the spiritual environment of the pilgrimage and potentially create discord among the millions of worshippers who gather from around the world.
The ministry emphasized that Hajj is a sacred journey marked by “worship, humility, and unity,” and warned that any behaviour that contradicts these principles “will not be tolerated.”
Pilgrims have been urged to respect the rules and cooperate with officials to help maintain a serene, well-organized, and spiritually fulfilling Hajj experience.
“Security personnel will be deployed throughout the pilgrimage period to monitor and enforce these regulations,” the ministry stated.
