14.04.2026 00:00
In order to control the increasing intensity before the Hajj season, the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Interior has implemented new regulations in many areas, from entries to Mecca to Umrah visits. With the decisions taken, entries to the city have been made subject to permission, a deadline has been given to Umrah visitors for departure, and it has been emphasized that sanctions for unauthorized worship will be strictly applied.
Saudi Arabia has implemented new measures against increasing density and security risks ahead of the Hajj season. According to a statement from the Saudi Ministry of Interior, entry to Mecca has been linked to a permit system, while significant restrictions have been imposed on Umrah visits and city entries.
PERMIT REQUIREMENT FOR ENTRY TO MECCA
According to the regulation effective as of April 14, residents wishing to enter Mecca are now required to obtain an official permit from the relevant institutions. Individuals without a permit will not be allowed to enter the city.
However, those with valid residency permits in Mecca, individuals with Hajj visas, and those with work permits in the holy areas will be exempt from this practice.
DEADLINE FOR UMRAH VISITORS TO DEPART
The deadline for foreign visitors in Saudi Arabia on Umrah visas to leave the country has been announced as April 18. It was stated that those remaining in the country after this date may face sanctions.
UMRAH PERMITS TO BE TEMPORARILY SUSPENDED
Additionally, the issuance of Umrah permits through the "Nusuk" platform will be temporarily suspended between April 18 and May 31. This step was stated to be taken to control the pre-Hajj density and carry out the organization in an orderly manner.
PENALTY FOR UNAUTHORIZED WORSHIP
Authorities emphasized that sanctions against individuals attempting to perform worship without a Hajj permit will continue. Accordingly, it was reminded that those attempting to perform Hajj without a permit may face entry bans into the country and fines of up to 20,000 riyals.
1.6 MILLION PEOPLE PARTICIPATED LAST YEAR
According to official data, the number of people who performed the Hajj pilgrimage in 2025 was recorded as 1,673,230. It was reported that approximately 10% of this number consisted of participants from within the country.
The Saudi administration emphasized that all these decisions taken were implemented to manage the potential density during the Hajj season, increase security, and carry out the organization more effectively.