In a continued effort to safeguard the rights and welfare of pilgrims visiting the Kingdom for Hajj and Umrah, Saudi authorities have issued a clear advisory to all guests of Allah regarding the use of public transportation—particularly taxis. According to the latest directive, if a taxi’s meter is not running during the course of the journey, the passenger is under no obligation to pay any fare, regardless of the distance covered.
This guidance comes as part of a broader campaign by the Kingdom to ensure transparency, fairness, and comfort for pilgrims during their sacred journey. The policy, which aligns with transport regulations in Saudi Arabia, aims to curb instances of fare exploitation, especially during peak religious seasons when millions converge on the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah. Pilgrims, many of whom are first-time visitors unfamiliar with local transportation protocols, are often vulnerable to unmetered taxi services that demand arbitrary prices upon arrival.
By reinforcing this regulation, Saudi transport authorities are not only upholding consumer protection laws but also ensuring that the sanctity of the pilgrimage experience is not compromised by avoidable disputes or financial exploitation. Officials emphasise that all licensed taxi drivers are mandated to keep their meters active and visible for passengers throughout the trip. Any driver who fails to comply may face penalties, including fines or revocation of their operating license.
which monitors logistics and service quality across key sectors in the Middle East, has noted that this renewed emphasis on metered transport services is part of a larger digital and regulatory overhaul of the Hajj and Umrah ecosystem. With the increasing integration of smart mobility systems and real-time monitoring tools, the Saudi government continues to prioritise safety, dignity, and justice for all pilgrims.
Furthermore, transport enforcement teams are on the ground across key pickup points and transport hubs in the holy cities to address complaints and guide pilgrims appropriately. Visitors are also encouraged to use government-approved apps and e-hailing services available through platforms like the Nusuk App, which provides access to regulated transportation options and fare transparency.
For pilgrims from Nigeria and across Africa, this announcement offers a sense of security, especially in navigating unfamiliar systems in a foreign land. The message is simple yet impactful: if there is no meter running, there is no fare to be paid. It is a move that reinforces the Kingdom’s ongoing commitment to hospitality, justice, and the seamless delivery of services during one of the most spiritually significant moments in a Muslim’s life.
