Saudi Arabia has enforced new Hajj-season restrictions, barring expatriates and residents without official permits from entering Makkah starting Monday, April 13.
According to Saudi Press Agency, Public Security confirmed that entry regulations tied to Hajj arrangements are now in effect.
Residents must possess valid permits to access the holy city, and those without proper documentation will be turned away at checkpoints.
#الأمن_العام:
اعتبارًا من اليوم الإثنين (25) شوال 1447هـ الموافق (13 أبريل 2026م) ..
يُمنع دخول المقيمين إلى العاصمة المقدسة دون تصريح#لا_حج_بلا_تصريح pic.twitter.com/HqL5u8gY2X— إمارة منطقة مكة المكرمة (@makkahregion) April 12, 2026
The restrictions apply to individuals who do not hold work permits for the Holy Sites, a Makkah-issued residency, or an official Hajj permit. Authorities have made it clear that only fully authorized individuals will be allowed entry during this period.
Officials have also set April 18 (1st of Dhul Qada) as the deadline for foreign pilgrims on Umrah visas to leave the Kingdom. Additionally, Umrah permit issuance through the Nusuk platform will be suspended from April 18 to May 31 for all groups, including citizens, expatriates, and GCC nationals.
From April 18 onward, entry into Makkah will be limited strictly to those holding valid Hajj visas.
