DUBAI: The Saudi Ministry of Interior has officially barred entry into Makkah for anyone without a valid permit starting from Wednesday, April 23, 2025.
This move is part of broader preparations for the Hajj season 1446H.
The decision applies to all residents and citizens across the Kingdom, with only a few exemptions in place. Individuals allowed to enter include residents with an Iqama issued from Makkah, those holding a valid work permit for duties in the holy sites, and pilgrims with an official Hajj permit.
Security checkpoints across major routes leading to Makkah, including Al Shumaisi, are now operating under heightened scrutiny. Any unauthorised attempt to enter the holy city will result in immediate denial of entry. Authorities have urged residents and visitors to comply with the directive to avoid penalties and disruption of the pilgrimage experience.
Permit system online
To facilitate the implementation of this regulation, the Ministry of Interior has launched the 'Tasreeh Portal'. Accessible through the Absher and Muqeem platforms, this digital gateway allows eligible individuals to apply for entry permits during the restricted Hajj period. The portal is designed to streamline verification, reduce delays, and uphold the integrity of the pilgrimage by limiting access to authorised individuals only.
In addition to regulating access, the Ministry of Hajj has reminded foreign pilgrims arriving on Umrah visas that they are not permitted to perform Hajj. All Umrah visa holders must exit the Kingdom by April 29, 2025. The consequences of overstaying or attempting Hajj without the proper documentation include fines of up to SAR 50,000, imprisonment for up to six months, deportation, and potential bans on re-entry.
Furthermore, the issuance of new Umrah permits via the “Nusuk” platform will be temporarily suspended between April 29 and June 10, 2025, to avoid misuse and maintain order during the peak Hajj season.
Visa suspensions and crackdowns
In a further move to ensure crowd control and safety, Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended the issuance of all Umrah, business, and family visit visas for citizens of 14 countries. This suspension, effective from April 13, 2025, will continue through mid-June and affects travellers from Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Egypt, and several other nations. The policy is aimed at preventing unauthorised attempts to participate in Hajj through alternative visa channels.
The ministry of Interior also issued a strong warning to sponsors, stating that failing to report the timely departure of visa holders may result in a fine of up to SAR 50,000, imprisonment, and deportation for expatriate sponsors.
Authorities have already begun taking action against fraudulent activities. In one case, Makkah police arrested two individuals – one Saudi and one Sudanese – for promoting fake Hajj campaigns on social media. These fraudulent ads offered accommodation and transport within the holy sites and were intended to deceive unsuspecting pilgrims. Legal proceedings are underway, and the suspects have been referred to the Public Prosecution.
Support services for Hajj pilgrims
To ensure a smooth and safe Hajj experience, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has launched a series of services and initiatives. These include streamlined processing of temporary work permits via the “Ajeer” portal, the issuance of seasonal work visas, and rigorous inspection campaigns to ensure compliance with labour laws.
The ministry is also expanding social services in the holy sites, such as offering family counselling, childcare facilities, and volunteer support for the elderly and disabled. Pilgrims can expect enhanced assistance at border crossings and within the Grand Mosque, including the distribution of food and water.
Public Security encourages citizens and residents to report any violations of Hajj regulations by calling (911) in Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Region, or (999) in other areas of the Kingdom.