Saudi Arabia bars visit visa holders from Hajj, entry restricted without permit

Saudi Arabia has barred all visit visa holders from performing Hajj this year, allowing entry to Mecca and holy sites only for those with an official permit. The move comes as authorities tighten rules ahead of the pilgrimage season and enforce penalties for violations.

The Ministry of Interior said the restriction applies during the Hajj period, which runs from the start of Dhu Al Qi’dah until the 14th of Dhu Al Hijjah. During this time, only authorised pilgrims will be allowed to enter Mecca and surrounding holy sites. Anyone attempting to enter or stay without a permit will be treated as violating the law.

The decision is part of a wider plan to regulate pilgrim movement and ensure safety during the annual gathering.

Strict penalties for violations

Authorities have set strict penalties for violations. Visit visa holders attempting Hajj or entering restricted areas can face fines of up to 20,000 Saudi riyals. Residents and overstayers found performing Hajj without a permit will be deported and barred from re-entering the country for 10 years.

(Join our ETNRI WhatsApp channel for all the latest updates)


The enforcement comes alongside deadlines for Umrah pilgrims. April 18, 2026, was the last day for Umrah visitors to leave Saudi Arabia. Staying beyond this date is considered a violation. Companies and service providers that fail to report overstayers may face fines of up to 100,000 riyals and further legal action.

Umrah permits suspended during Hajj period

Saudi authorities have also suspended the issuance of Umrah permits through the Nusuk platform for citizens, residents and GCC nationals during the same period. This limits access to Mecca exclusively to authorised Hajj pilgrims.

The Ministry of Interior said the measures are part of an operational plan to ensure safety, security and smooth movement of pilgrims. The campaign is being enforced under the slogan: “No Hajj without a permit.”

Authorities have asked the public to follow the rules and report violations through emergency numbers — 911 in Mecca, Medina, Riyadh and the Eastern Province, and 999 in other regions.

In a separate case, police in Mecca arrested a Sudanese resident for allegedly promoting fake entry permits through social media. Authorities said legal action has been taken and the case has been referred to the Public Prosecution.

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah said pilgrims and service providers must follow official procedures, adding that performing Hajj without a permit is a clear violation. It said compliance is important to maintain safety standards and manage crowds during the pilgrimage.