Saudi Arabia Sets Makkah Entry Rules Ahead of Hajj Season
- 7 hours ago
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RIYADH, April 13 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) — Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior said residents wishing to enter Makkah will be required to obtain official permits starting Monday, April 13, as the Kingdom begins implementing arrangements for the 1447 AH Hajj season.
The ministry said residents without the required permits would be denied entry to Makkah. Exemptions apply to holders of residency permits issued in Makkah, those holding a Hajj permit, and individuals with work permits for the holy sites issued electronically through the Absher Individuals platform and the Muqeem portal, which are technically integrated with the Tasreeh platform.
The ministry also said Saturday, April 18, 2026, would be the final deadline for holders of Umrah visas currently in the Kingdom to leave the country.
It added that the issuance of Umrah permits through the Nusuk platform would be suspended from Saturday, April 18, until Sunday, May 31, 2026, for Saudi citizens, Gulf Cooperation Council nationals, residents inside the Kingdom, and holders of other visas.
Under the measures, holders of all visa types will also be barred from entering or remaining in Makkah starting Saturday, April 18, unless they hold a Hajj visa, the ministry said.
The ministry said the steps were aimed at maintaining the safety of pilgrims and ensuring that Hajj is performed in a secure and orderly manner.
It warned that violations of the instructions would be subject to the penalties prescribed by law.
