Saudi Arabia has announced that expatriates and residents without official permits will be barred from entering Makkah from April 13, as part of new regulations introduced for the upcoming Hajj season.
According to the Saudi Press Agency, Public Security confirmed that the permit requirement has come into effect, and only individuals with valid authorisation will be allowed entry into the holy city.
The restrictions apply to anyone who does not hold a valid Hajj permit, a work permit for the Holy Sites, or a residency ID issued in Makkah. Authorities have set up strict checkpoints, where those failing to meet the requirements will be turned back.
In addition, April 18 has been set as the final deadline for Umrah pilgrims to leave the country. From the same date, Umrah permits issued through the Nusuk platform will be suspended until May 31. Entry into Makkah will also be restricted for all visa holders except those with valid Hajj visas.
The government officials added that permits for Hajj season workers will be issued digitally through platforms such as Absher and Muqeem Portal, integrated with the Tasreeh system.
Authorities have urged residents and visitors to strictly comply with the new rules, warning that violations will result in penalties, as the measures are aimed at ensuring safety and smooth pilgrimage operations.
Earlier, Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Passports started deploying advanced technology at major airports in order to facilitate easy and fast travel for the Umrah pilgrims, especially during the busy Ramzan season.
The use of electronic gate (E-gate) technology has been introduced by the directorate in King Abdulaziz International airport in Jeddah and Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz international airport in Madinah.
The new system enables pilgrims to undertake the entry and exit procedure by themselves using biometric verification techniques.
Using biometric checks, travellers can travel through immigration in seconds without any manual processing being required.
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