IMPORTANT UPDATE FOR PILGRIMS : SAUDI ARABIA INTRODUCES 1,000 RIYALS FINE FOR FEEDING PIGEONS IN MAKKAH AND MADINAH

Authorities in Makkah have officially introduced a SAR 1,000 fine for anyone caught feeding pigeons near the Grand Mosque (Masjid al-Haram). The directive, issued by the Holy Capital Secretariat, aims to protect public health, maintain cleanliness, and preserve the sanctity of Islam’s holiest sites.

Officials explained that leftover food used to feed pigeons often attracts insects and rodents, leading to serious hygiene and sanitation challenges around the sacred area especially given the constant flow of pilgrims. This initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to ensure that the environment around the Haram remains pure, clean, and welcoming for all worshippers.

The same rule has now been extended to Madinah, particularly in the vicinity of the Prophet’s Mosque (Al-Masjid an-Nabawi). Residents and visitors are being strongly urged not to feed pigeons and to report any violations to the local authorities.

So, next time you’re blessed to visit Makkah or Madinah, remember  admire the pigeons from a distance, but please don’t feed them. Together, we can help keep these sacred cities clean, pure, and spiritually serene.