Saudi Arabia‘s Ministry of Interior has unveiled a series of strict regulations for the upcoming Hajj season, prohibiting entry to Makkah for anyone without a valid Hajj visa from April 29, 2025.
The new measures stipulate that expatriates will be banned from entering Makkah from April 23 unless they possess an official permit.
According to a report by the Saudi Gazette which cited the ministry’s statement released on Saturday, entry permits will only be granted to individuals with officially registered residency in Makkah, those holding valid Hajj permits, or persons authorised to work within the holy sites.
Saudi Arabia Announces New Regulations for Hajj 2025
“The issuance of Umrah permits via the Nusuk platform will be suspended for Saudi citizens, GCC nationals, expatriates in Saudi Arabia, and other visa holders effective from Tuesday, April 29,” the report said, citing the ministry announcement. This suspension will remain in effect until June 10, 2025.
The ministry confirmed that April 13 ,2025 (15 Shawwal 1446) marks the final date for Umrah pilgrims to enter the Kingdom, while all foreign pilgrims must depart by April 29, 2025 (1 Dhul-Qi’dah 1446).
Permit applications can be submitted electronically through the Absher Individuals platform or the Muqeem portal.
The regulations aim to “ensure the safety and security of all pilgrims,” according to the ministry, which warned that violators will face legal penalties.
The ministry emphasised “the importance of cooperation to ensure the safety, and sanctity of the pilgrimage.”
