Starting Wednesday, April 23, (25 Shawwal 1446 AH), all residents seeking to enter the holy city of Mecca must obtain official entry permits, as Saudi Arabia begins enforcing its annual Hajj access regulations, the Public Security Directorate has announced.
This directive is part of broader efforts by Saudi authorities to ensure the safety and organisation of the annual Hajj pilgrimage. The regulations apply to both Saudi citizens and expatriate residents, reports the Gulf News.
Permit requirement for Mecca entry
The directive is part of broader efforts to ensure safety and organisation during the Hajj pilgrimage and applies to both Saudi citizens and residents.
Those without valid documentation will be turned away at security checkpoints surrounding the city.
Under the regulation, individuals can enter Mecca only with one of the following:
A valid permit for work at the holy sites, authorised by the competent authority
Proof of residency registered in Mecca
An official Hajj permit
The policy is designed to streamline access, prevent overcrowding, and enhance security as the Kingdom prepares for the arrival of millions of pilgrims.
How to apply for entry permits
Entry permits are being issued electronically through the Ministry of Interior’s digital platforms, “Absher Individuals” and “Muqeem”, in coordination with the unified permit system “Tasreeh.”
Expatriates working during the Hajj season can apply via these portals without needing to visit passport offices, thanks to full integration with Saudi Arabia’s digital infrastructure.
Mandatory Hajj permits via 'Nusuk'
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah emphasized that all pilgrims must obtain Hajj permits exclusively through the official “Nusuk” platform, which is linked to “Tasreeh.”
It also clarified that Umrah, visit, or tourist visas do not authorise participation in Hajj rituals.
Warnings against fraudulent Hajj campaigns
Authorities have issued warnings against fake Hajj campaigns circulating on social media, which offer unlicensed accommodation or transportation.
Citizens and residents are urged to report such violations via emergency hotlines or to local authorities.
Tasreeh platform for permits
The Ministry of Interior recently launched the Tasreeh platform in collaboration with the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA).
This centralised system issues permits for pilgrims, workers, volunteers, and authorized vehicles entering Mecca and other holy sites. Permit holders can access their authorisations via the Tawakkalna app.
Umrah visa deadline
Additionally, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced that Tuesday, April 29, 2025 (1 Dhul-Qi’dah 1446 AH) is the final departure deadline for Umrah visa holders currently in the Kingdom, ahead of the Hajj season.
The Kingdom has warned that Umrah pilgrims who overstay beyond this date will face deportation, imprisonment, and heavy fines. Overstaying will be treated as a legal offense under Saudi regulations.
Strict penalties for overstaying
The Kingdom has previously announced that strict measures, including deportation and imprisonment, will be taken against Umrah pilgrims who violate visa regulations and fail to depart the country by the April 29th deadline.
Staying beyond this date will be considered a legal offense, subject to significant fines, imprisonment, and subsequent deportation from Saudi Arabia.
