Saudi Arabia has introduced stricter Saudi Arabia Hajj permit rules, limiting access to Mecca and the holy sites to authorised pilgrims only. The Ministry of Interior confirmed that all visit visas, regardless of type, do not grant permission to perform Hajj.
The restriction applies throughout the pilgrimage window, from the start of Dhu Al Qi’dah until the 14th of Dhu Al Hijjah. Anyone entering or remaining in Mecca without a valid Hajj permit during this period will face legal action.
Heavy Fines and Deportation for Violations
The Saudi Arabia Hajj permit rules introduce strict penalties to enforce compliance.
Visit visa holders attempting to perform Hajj or enter restricted areas face fines of up to 20,000 Saudi riyals. Residents and overstayers found violating the rules will be deported and banned from re-entering the Kingdom for 10 years.
Authorities also warned companies and service providers that failure to report overstays could result in fines reaching 100,000 riyals, along with further legal consequences.
Umrah Deadline and Permit Suspension in Effect
The enforcement aligns with the closure of the Umrah season. April 18, 2026, marked the final departure deadline for Umrah pilgrims. Staying beyond this date is considered a violation under current regulations.
In addition, Saudi Arabia has suspended Umrah permit issuance through the Nusuk platform for all categories, including citizens, residents, and GCC nationals.
This suspension ensures that access to Mecca remains restricted exclusively to authorised Hajj pilgrims during the season.
“No Hajj Without a Permit” Campaign Intensifies
Authorities are reinforcing the Saudi Arabia Hajj permit rules as part of a unified campaign to ensure safety and order during the pilgrimage.
The operational plan focuses on crowd management, security, and smooth movement across one of the world’s largest annual gatherings.
Officials urged full compliance and encouraged reporting of violations through emergency numbers, including 911 in major regions and 999 elsewhere.
Fraud Case Highlights Enforcement Risks
In a related case, police in Mecca arrested a Sudanese resident accused of promoting fake entry permits through social media.
Authorities confirmed that legal action has been taken and the case has been referred to the Public Prosecution, reinforcing the risks associated with unauthorised access attempts.
Compliance Central to Pilgrim Safety
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah stated that adherence to official procedures remains essential for maintaining safety standards and improving crowd control.
The Saudi Arabia Hajj permit rules reflect a structured approach to managing large-scale pilgrimage operations, ensuring that movement, access, and services remain controlled and efficient throughout the season.
The Ministry of Interior said only those holding an official Hajj permit will be allowed to enter Mecca and the holy sites during the pilgrimage period, which runs from the start of Dhu Al Qi’dah until the 14th of Dhu Al Hijjah.
AFP/ Source: Gulf News
