Saudi Arabia has rolled out stringent measures ahead of this year’s Hajj season, declaring that visit visas, regardless of type. do not authorize holders to perform the pilgrimage, as authorities tighten control over access to Mecca and surrounding holy sites.
The Ministry of Interior emphasized that only individuals with an official Hajj permit will be allowed entry into Mecca during the pilgrimage period, which runs from the start of Dhu Al Qi’dah until the 14th of Dhu Al Hijjah.
Those attempting to enter or remain in the area without authorization during this period will be deemed in violation of the law.
Authorities warned of steep penalties for non-compliance. Visit visa holders caught attempting to perform Hajj or enter restricted areas face fines of up to 20,000 Saudi riyals.
Meanwhile, residents and overstayers found undertaking the pilgrimage without a permit will be deported and barred from re-entering the Kingdom for up to 10 years.
The enforcement coincides with the implementation of departure deadlines for Umrah pilgrims. April 18, 2026 marked the final day for Umrah visitors to exit the country.
Remaining beyond this date constitutes a violation, with companies and service providers facing fines of up to 100,000 riyals for failing to report overstays, along with possible legal action.
In addition, Saudi authorities announced the suspension of Umrah permit issuance via the Nusuk platform for all categories, including citizens, residents, and GCC nationals, from the start of Dhu Al Qi’dah until the 14th of Dhu Al Hijjah. The move effectively limits access to Mecca during this period to authorized Hajj pilgrims.
The Ministry of Interior said the measures form part of a broader operational plan to ensure the safety, security, and orderly movement of pilgrims during one of the world’s largest annual gatherings. The campaign is being reinforced under the slogan: “No Hajj without a permit.”
Authorities urged the public to comply with the regulations and report violations through emergency hotlines—911 in Mecca, Medina, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, and 999 in other regions.
In a related development, police in Mecca arrested a Sudanese resident for alleged fraud involving the promotion of fake entry permits through social media. The suspect has been referred to the Public Prosecution for further legal proceedings.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah reiterated that performing Hajj without a permit is a clear violation, stressing that strict adherence to official procedures is essential to maintaining safety standards, improving crowd management, and ensuring a smoother pilgrimage experience.
