Haj 2025: Saudi Arabia announces new set of rules for entry in Makkah

The Saudi Ministry of Interior has outlined a series of procedures and guidelines in preparation for Hajj 2025, aimed at ensuring the safety and security of pilgrims throughout the holy season.

In a notification issued on Sunday, the ministry announced that the final date for Umrah performers to enter the Kingdom is Sunday, 13 April 2025, while the last permissible date for departure is Tuesday, 29 April 2025.

The ministry cautioned that overstaying beyond the specified deadline would constitute a breach.

Under the announced guidelines, access to the holy city of Makkah will be strictly regulated from Wednesday, April 23, 2025. Individuals wishing to enter the holy city must present one of the following: a valid work permit, a residency ID issued from Makkah, or a valid Hajj permit.

Foreign residents living in other parts of the Kingdom will not be allowed entry into Makkah unless they acquire the appropriate permit. Violators attempting to enter without permits will be sent back through Al Shumaisi or other checkpoints, the statement read.

The ministry also announced a suspension of Umrah permit issuance via the "Nusuk" platform from April 29 to June 10, 2025.

Furthermore, individuals holding any visa type other than an official Hajj visa will be barred from entering or staying in Makkah, starting April 29.

The guidelines suggest that foreign nationals who are required to enter Makkah or the surrounding holy sites for employment purposes must apply for travel permits via the relevant portals.