TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Saudi Arabia will enforce strict entry regulations to Mecca, prohibiting entry or residency for individuals holding visas other than Hajj visas, starting April 29, 2025. Furthermore, expatriates lacking valid permits will also be restricted from entering Mecca starting April 23, as reported by Al Arabiya.
Entry permits will only be granted to individuals whose official residency is registered within Mecca, those possessing valid Hajj permits, or personnel authorized to work within the holy sites. Applications for these permits can be submitted electronically through the Absher Individuals platform or the Muqeem portal.
Temporary Visa Suspension for 14 Countries
Saudi Arabia previously announced a temporary cessation of issuing new short-term visas, encompassing business visit visas (both single and multiple entry), electronic tourist visas, and family visit visas, for 14 countries. This measure is part of a series of actions designed to regulate this year's Hajj season and prioritize the safety and security of all pilgrims.
This moratorium, which took effect on April 13, 2025, applies to citizens of India, Egypt, Pakistan, Yemen, Tunisia, Morocco, Jordan, Nigeria, Algeria, Indonesia, Iraq, Sudan, Bangladesh, and Libya.
Basil Al Sisi, a member of the Egyptian Tourism Company Chamber, explained in a television interview that this decision was made from lessons learned during the previous Hajj season. "Authorities have identified the countries that contributed to the crisis last year," he stated, referring to instances of individuals attempting to perform Hajj using short-term visas or visas not specifically designated for the Hajj pilgrimage.
The Ministry of Interior announced the latest Hajj regulations on Saturday, April 12, 2025, affirming that Sunday, the 15th of Shawwal in the Islamic calendar year 1446, corresponding to April 13, 2025, in the Gregorian calendar, would be the final date for Umrah pilgrims to enter the Kingdom.
Concurrently, the deadline for all foreign Umrah pilgrims to depart the Kingdom is Tuesday, the 1st of Dhu al-Qa'dah 1446 Hijri, corresponding to April 29, 2025, as reported by Saudi Gazette.
Rules for the 2025 Hajj Pilgrimage
As reported by Gulf Business, the Saudi Ministry of Interior has announced several key regulations for the Hajj pilgrimage, aiming to ensure the safety and well-being of pilgrims and facilitate their ability to perform Hajj easily, safely, and peacefully.
Here are five essential rules for the 2025 Hajj, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency:
Rule 1: Entry into Saudi Arabia
The Ministry has announced that April 13, 2025 (15 Shawwal 1446 H), is the final date for individuals holding Umrah visas to enter Saudi Arabia.
Rule 2: Departure Deadline from Saudi Arabia:
Holders of Umrah visas must depart Saudi Arabia no later than April 29, 2025 (1 Dhu al-Qa'dah 1446 H).
Rule 3: Required Permissions for Residents
Commencing on April 23, 2025 (25 Shawwal 1446 H), residents of Saudi Arabia are required to obtain entry permits from the relevant authorities to enter Mecca. Residents who do not possess the necessary permission will be denied entry and directed back to their point of origin. Exceptions are applicable to individuals who:
Hold work permits for the holy sites issued by the relevant authorities.
Possess a valid identity card issued by the city of Mecca.
- Possess a valid Hajj permit.
Entry permits for those employed in Mecca during the Hajj season can be obtained electronically through the "Absher Individuals" and "Muqeem" online portals.
Rule 4: Suspension of Umrah Permits
The Ministry has announced the suspension of Umrah permit issuance through the Nusuk platform for Saudi citizens, citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), expatriate residents in Saudi Arabia, and other visa holders, starting from Tuesday, April 29. This suspension will remain in effect until Monday, the 14th of Dhu al-Qa'dah 1446 H or June 10, 2025.
Rule 5: Hajj Visa for Entry into Mecca:
Starting from April 29, only individuals holding Hajj visas will be allowed to enter or stay in Mecca.
The Ministry of Interior has strongly urged full adherence to these Hajj season regulations and appealed for cooperation with the relevant authorities to ensure the safety and security of all pilgrims. Violations of these regulations will be subject to legal penalties.
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