The Saudi Ministry of Interior has announced a set of updated procedures and guidelines as part of the preparations for Hajj 2025, with the aim of ensuring the safety and security of pilgrims during the holy season.
In a notification issued on Sunday, the ministry stated that the final entry date for Umrah performers into the Kingdom will be Sunday, April 13, 2025, while the last permissible departure date is Tuesday, April 29, 2025.
Notice issued by the Ministry of Interior of Saudi Arabia, April 13, 2025. — X/@MOISaudiArabia
The ministry warned that failure to depart by this date will be considered a violation of regulations.
Starting Wednesday, April 23, 2025, access to the holy city of Makkah will be strictly regulated. Individuals wishing to enter the holy city must present one of the following: a valid work permit, a residency ID issued from Makkah, or a valid Hajj permit.
Foreign residents living in other parts of the Kingdom will not be permitted entry into Makkah unless they obtain the appropriate permit. Violators attempting to enter without permits will be returned through Al Shumaisi or other checkpoints, the statement read.
The ministry also announced a temporary suspension of Umrah permit issuance via the “Nusuk” platform from April 29 to June 10, 2025.
Furthermore, individuals holding any visa type other than an official Hajj visa will be barred from entering or staying in Makkah, commencing on April 29.
The guidelines indicate that foreign nationals who are required to enter Makkah or the surrounding holy sites for employment purposes must apply for travel permits through the designated portals.
