RIYADH:
Saudi Arabia’s Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdul-Aziz ibn Abdullah Aal Al-Sheikh has declared that performing Hajj pilgrimage without an official permit is not permissible.
In a statement released on Saturday, the Grand Mufti and Chairman of the Senior Scholars Council, Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh emphasized that no individual is allowed to undertake the pilgrimage without a permit.
He urged all pilgrims to strictly adhere to official guidelines and safety measures.
Sheikh Abdulaziz, who holds the highest position of religious authority in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) highlighted that obtaining a Hajj permit and receiving the vaccinations announced by the Ministry of Health are integral parts of official guidelines.
He reiterated that unauthorized participation in Hajj is not permissible, aligning with the objectives of Sharia to promote welfare and eliminate harm.
As preparations for Hajj 2024 are underway, over 1.9 million pilgrims from around the world, including 160,000 from Pakistan, are expected to perform the pilgrimage this year.