Saudi Arabia Announces No More Entry To Makkah Without A Haj Permit: What You Need To Know

If you’re currently in Saudi Arabia on an Umrah visa, it’s important to know that all Umrah visa holders must leave before April 29, 2025 as an order from the Kingdom. After this date, staying in the country without a valid reason could lead to legal trouble. Keep reading to find out all the important details you need to know.

Also read: Step-By-Step Guide On How To Apply For Hajj Leave & What Are The Rules For Different UAE Employees

Strict Rules For Staying In Makkah

During the annual Haj season, only people with an official Haj permit or those living or working in Makkah are allowed to stay in the city. This rule applies to all hotels and hospitality providers – they’ve been clearly notified not to host anyone without a valid permit from April 29 onwards until the end of the Haj season.

Who Can Still Enter Makkah?

Starting April 23, residents of Saudi Arabia need a special permit to enter Makkah. If you don’t have one, you won’t be allowed into the city and will be sent back. There are a few exceptions though:

• People with a work permit for the Holy Sites
• Makkah residents with a valid resident ID
• Those holding an official Haj permit

If you fall into any of these categories, you can get your entry permits through the ‘Absher Individuals’ or ‘Muqeem’ portals online.

Umrah Permit Suspensions

From April 29 to June 10, the government has paused Umrah permits for everyone. This includes Saudi citizens, GCC nationals, residents inside the Kingdom, and people on other types of visas. This pause is part of efforts to make sure the Haj season runs smoothly and safely.

All of these steps are part of a broader plan by the Ministry of Interior to keep pilgrims safe and make the Haj experience peaceful for everyone. They’ve asked for full cooperation from hotels, residents, and visitors to help maintain security and ensure everything runs smoothly during this sacred time.