29th April 2026 - 2 min read
Claims circulating on social media that Haj pilgrims will be fined 10,000 Saudi riyals (roughly RM10,500) for taking photos at Masjidil Haram are not true. The head of the Malaysian Haj delegation, Mohd Hisham Harun, has confirmed that no such regulation has been imposed, and you are still allowed to take photos around the Kaaba.
Some versions of the viral claim also alleged that pilgrims caught taking photos or videos could face detention and deportation.
Mohd Hisham said photography should be avoided while you are performing tawaf, as it can break your concentration and disrupt the movement of other pilgrims around you. Taking photos outside of tawaf remains fine.
The Malaysian Haj delegation believes the viral claim stemmed from a misunderstanding that spread quickly online, causing concern among pilgrims and their families. Mohd Hisham urged pilgrims to rely on official sources and Lembaga Tabung Haji personnel for accurate information rather than unverified social media posts.
If you are preparing for Haj this year or have family members who are, confirm any regulatory claims directly with Tabung Haji before reacting to what circulates online. Misinformation tends to spread quickly during the Haj season, and official channels are always the most reliable source.
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As a creative content writer, Eloise has covered finance, business, lifestyle topics, and even moonlights as a singer-songwriter outside of RinggitPlus. Her current interests are learning the best ways to optimise spending and credit card hacks to gain more airline miles.
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