Saudi Arabia has officially opened the Hajj season with strict new entry regulations for the holy city of Makkah, effective from April 23. The move, led by the Ministry of Interior and General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat), aims to streamline pilgrimage operations and avoid overcrowding during one of the world’s largest religious events.
Under the new policy, access to Makkah will be restricted to individuals holding valid entry documentation. Permits must now be obtained through the newly launched Tasreeh Portal, accessible via the Absher and Muqeem platforms. Only those with a work permit specific to Makkah, an Iqama issued in the city, or an official Hajj permit will be allowed entry.
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Security checkpoints have been activated at all entry points into the city to enforce the regulations. Authorities warned that anyone attempting to enter without appropriate documentation will be denied access and may face penalties.
In a related advisory, the Ministry of Hajj reiterated that performing Hajj on an Umrah visa is strictly prohibited. Foreign nationals currently in the Kingdom on Umrah visas have been instructed to leave before their visas expire, with officials cautioning that violators could be deported.
The new directives come as Saudi Arabia faces rising logistical demands and scrutiny over recent administrative lapses. Reports that 67,000 Pakistani applicants could miss Hajj 2025 due to bureaucratic mismanagement have sparked public outrage and demands for accountability.
Authorities continue to urge all pilgrims, domestic and international, to follow official protocols to ensure a safe and orderly Hajj season.
