Saudi Arabia bans all photography inside Holy Mosques

Saudi Arabia has introduced a new policy that will ban taking photos and recording videos inside the Grand Mosque in Mecca and the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina.

The restriction will apply to mobile phones, professional cameras and all kinds of recording devices. The directive will come into effect from the upcoming Hajj season, as authorities aim to ensure a peaceful and focused environment for worshippers. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah explained that the ban became necessary due to the increasing problems caused by photography during rush hours. Officials observed that many pilgrims stop in crowded areas to take pictures, which results in delays during prayer times and creates unnecessary disputes. The ministry added that photography also causes congestion at sensitive locations inside the holy sites and often leads to violation of personal space, especially when thousands of people are moving at the same time.

According to the ministry, the main purpose of the restriction is to help pilgrims stay focused during worship and avoid distractions. Authorities want to make sure that the spiritual environment of the two holy mosques is maintained and that visitors can perform their rituals without disturbance. A ministry official said the decision follows repeated concerns from local administrations and international delegations.

These groups reported that photography had become a major reason for disruptions, slowing movement and creating safety issues in areas already filled with large crowds. By implementing this policy before Hajj, the ministry hopes to ensure a more organized, safe and respectful experience for all pilgrims. The new ban signals a stronger effort by Saudi authorities to protect the sanctity of the holy sites and improve crowd management as millions prepare to visit during the upcoming pilgrimage season.