Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior has announced new entry regulations for Makkah as part of comprehensive preparations for Hajj 2025. Starting April 23, 2025, access to the holy city will be restricted to individuals holding special permits.
Foreign nationals currently in the Kingdom on Umrah visas must depart by April 29 to avoid violating visa regulations. From April 23 onward, expatriates living in other parts of Saudi Arabia will be required to present a permit to enter Makkah. Security checkpoints, including Al-Shumaisi, will enforce these rules, turning back those without valid documentation.
Expatriates whose residency (Iqama) is registered in Makkah are exempt from the permit requirement.
Foreign workers whose jobs necessitate their presence in Makkah or the surrounding holy sites (Mashair-e-Muqaddasah) must obtain official permits via the ‘Absher’ or ‘Muqeem’ platforms based on their professional roles.
The issuance of Umrah permits via the ‘Nusuk’ portal for GCC citizens and foreign residents in Saudi Arabia holding non-Umrah visas will be paused between April 29 and June 10, 2025.
Additionally, only those with valid Hajj visas will be allowed to remain in Makkah after April 29. Individuals holding any other visa type will be required to leave the city.
These measures aim to maintain order, enhance safety, and ensure a smooth pilgrimage experience during Hajj. The Ministry has warned that any breaches of these regulations will lead to legal action under Saudi law.
