Saudi Arabia Enforces Strict ‘No Hajj Without Permit’ Rules Ahead of 1447 AH Pilgrimage

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Riyadh: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior has introduced a comprehensive set of regulations for the upcoming Hajj season (1447 AH), aimed at safeguarding pilgrims and ensuring that rituals are carried out smoothly and in an orderly manner.

At the heart of these measures is the campaign slogan “No Hajj without a permit,” which is designed to manage crowd flow and regulate access to the holy sites.

Effective Monday, April 13, 2026 (25 Shawwal 1447 AH), authorities have begun requiring all residents seeking to enter Makkah to obtain official permits. Residents without valid authorization from the relevant authorities will be denied entry.

Exceptions have been granted to individuals holding resident IDs issued in Makkah, as well as those with valid Hajj permits or official work permits for the holy sites. These permits are issued electronically through an integrated system connecting the Absher Individuals platform and the Muqeem portal via the “Tasreeh” platform.

In addition, the ministry has outlined key dates for Umrah pilgrims. Saturday, April 18, 2026 (1 Dhul Qa’dah 1447 AH), has been set as the final deadline for Umrah visa holders to exit the Kingdom. From the same date, the issuance of Umrah permits through the “Nusuk” platform will be suspended for all categories, including citizens, residents, and visitors.

This suspension will remain in place until May 31, 2026 (14 Dhul Hijjah 1447 AH).

The ministry further emphasized that from the start of Dhul Qa’dah, entry into or stay in Makkah will be restricted to those holding Hajj-specific visas, with all other visa holders barred.

Concluding its statement, the ministry urged everyone to comply fully with Hajj regulations and cooperate with security authorities, warning that strict legal action will be taken against violators to ensure the safety and security of all pilgrims.