New Makkah Entry Guidelines Revealed for Hajj 2025

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Pilgrims perform the farewell tawaf in the holy city of Makkah on July 11, 2022, signifying the conclusion of Hajj. — AFP

The Saudi Ministry of Interior has released a new set of guidelines and procedures as part of the planning for Hajj 2025, focused on ensuring the safety and security of pilgrims throughout the sacred season.

A notification issued on Sunday indicated that the last date for Umrah pilgrims to enter the Kingdom will be Sunday, April 13, 2025, with the final departure allowed on Tuesday, April 29, 2025.

Announcement by the Ministry of Interior of Saudi Arabia on April 13, 2025. —X/@MOISaudiArabia

The ministry cautioned that not returning by the specified date will be considered a violation of regulations.

Starting Wednesday, April 23, 2025, access to the sacred city of Makkah will be tightly controlled. Those wishing to enter must present a valid work permit, a residency ID specific to Makkah, or an official Hajj permit.

Foreign residents in different areas of the Kingdom will not be permitted entry to Makkah unless they possess the necessary permits. Anyone attempting to enter without the appropriate documentation will be redirected through Al Shumaisi or other checkpoints, according to the statement.

Additionally, the ministry announced that the issuance of Umrah permits via the “Nusuk” platform will be paused from April 29 to June 10, 2025.

Moreover, individuals holding any visa type other than an official Hajj visa will be prohibited from entering or remaining in Makkah starting April 29.

The guidelines further suggest that foreign nationals needing to access Makkah or its surrounding holy sites for work must apply for travel permits through the designated portals.