As part of the preparations for the Hajj season of 1447 AH (2026), the Ministry of Interior of Saudi Arabia is updating the procedures for entering the city of Mecca and performing Umrah. According to the new rules, a special permit will be required to enter Mecca starting April 13, 2026. Individuals without this document will not be allowed into the city area.
Exemptions remain for certain categories. Specifically, citizens with official residency permits in Mecca, pilgrims arriving with Hajj visas, and individuals who have obtained electronic permits to work in the holy sites will not be subject to these restrictions.
The final deadline for pilgrims arriving on Umrah visas to leave the country has been set for April 18, 2026. After this date, the issuance of Umrah permits will be temporarily suspended, and this restriction will continue until May 31.
Furthermore, after April 18, all foreign citizens without a Hajj visa are strictly prohibited from entering and staying in Mecca.
The Ministry emphasized that these rules have been introduced to ensure the Hajj season is conducted safely, orderly, and harmoniously, and measures will be taken within the framework of the law against those who do not comply.
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