Saudi Arabia has introduced stringent regulations for the upcoming Hajj season, explicitly banning all types of visit visas for performing the pilgrimage without an official Hajj permit. This decisive measure aims to regulate access to Mecca and the holy sites, ensuring pilgrim safety and orderly conduct. The Ministry of Interior confirmed that only individuals holding a valid Hajj permit will be allowed entry to these sacred areas during the Hajj period, spanning from the start of Dhu Al Qi’dah until the 14th of Dhu Al Hijjah. Any unauthorized entry or presence during this time will be considered a legal violation, marking a significant shift in access protocols.
Penalties for non-compliance are severe. Visit visa holders attempting Hajj or unauthorized entry to Mecca face fines up to 20,000 Saudi riyals. Residents and overstayers found performing Hajj without a permit will face immediate deportation and a 10-year re-entry ban to the Kingdom. These strict rules underscore authorities’ commitment to preventing unauthorized participation that could strain infrastructure and endanger legitimate pilgrims. Service providers also face fines up to 100,000 riyals for failing to report overstaying Umrah pilgrims, alongside further legal action.
These Hajj restrictions coincide with other key operational updates. The final departure deadline for Umrah pilgrims was April 18, 2026, with overstaying considered a violation. Additionally, Umrah permit issuance via the Nusuk platform is suspended for all categories (citizens, residents, GCC nationals) from the start of Dhu Al Qi’dah until the 14th of Dhu Al Hijjah, restricting Mecca access to authorized Hajj pilgrims only. In a related event, Mecca police arrested a Sudanese resident for promoting fraudulent entry permits on social media, highlighting proactive measures against illicit activities.
The Ministry of Interior stated these measures are part of an operational plan to guarantee the safety, security, and smooth movement of all pilgrims. The campaign, under the slogan “No Hajj without a permit,” aims to boost public awareness and compliance. Authorities urge strict adherence to regulations and reporting violations via emergency numbers (911 for Mecca, Medina, Riyadh, Eastern Province; 999 for other regions). Both the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah emphasize that obtaining a proper Hajj permit is crucial for upholding safety, improving crowd management, and ensuring a smoother, more secure experience for all pilgrims.
