Saudi Arabia Makes Permit Mandatory for Entry into Makkah Ahead of Hajj Season 2026

Riyadh: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has made entry permits mandatory for access to the holy city of Mecca starting today, as part of preparations for Hajj Season 2026.

According to the Saudi Press Agency, the Ministry of Interior has implemented the new regulations effective from April 13, 2026, introducing strict permit requirements for all individuals entering the city during the Hajj season.

The ministry stated that permits for entry into Makkah and the holy sites have now begun to be issued. Individuals whose residency permits (Iqama) are issued outside Makkah but who need to enter the city for professional duties must apply for a special Makkah entry permit through the “Absher” or “Muqeem” platforms.

Authorities have also launched a unified digital portal, “Tasreeh,” for issuing permits for entry into Makkah and the holy sites.

The ministry further clarified that from April 18, 2026, only Hajj visa holders will be allowed to enter or stay in Makkah. Individuals holding other types of visit or temporary visas will be considered in violation if they remain in the city beyond the deadline.

Additionally, Umrah visa holders have been instructed to depart the Kingdom before April 18, 2026, as part of tightened seasonal regulations aimed at managing crowd control and ensuring the safety of pilgrims during the annual pilgrimage period.