In a written statement, the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Interior stated, "It has been decided that holders of all types of visas, except for Hajj visa holders, will not be permitted to enter or remain in the city of Mecca starting from 1 Dhu al-Qi'dah 1446 (April 29, 2025)."
The statement specified that the deadline for those performing Umrah to enter Saudi Arabia is April 13, and the final day for departure is April 29.
Noting that the issuance of Umrah visas will be suspended until June 10, the statement added, "To enter the Holy Capital (Mecca), one must possess a work permit, a residence permit issued by the Holy Capital Administration, or a valid Hajj visa."
Saudi Arabia began implementing measures to prevent "unauthorized Hajj" visits after the 2024 Hajj season, when the influx of many people entering Mecca secretly to perform rituals without permission increased the strain on infrastructure and healthcare services.
News Source: AA
