The Saudi Ministry of Interior has issued new guidelines for Hajj 2025, focusing on crowd control, safety, and legal compliance during the pilgrimage.
As per the announcement, the final entry date for Umrah pilgrims is April 13, with a mandatory exit deadline set for April 29. Pilgrims overstaying will be treated as violators of Saudi regulations.
Starting April 23, access to Makkah will be tightly restricted. Only individuals with Makkah-issued residency IDs, valid work permits, or official Hajj permits will be granted entry. Checkpoints like Al Shumaisi will enforce these rules strictly, and violators will be turned back.
In addition, Umrah permit issuance will be suspended via the “Nusuk” platform from April 29 to June 10. No one with a visa other than the designated Hajj visa will be allowed to enter or remain in Makkah during this period.
The ministry advises all workers or foreign nationals needing access to Makkah to apply for appropriate travel permits through official channels to avoid complications.
These measures aim to ensure a smooth and secure Hajj season, safeguarding both the sanctity of the pilgrimage and the wellbeing of millions of Muslims expected to attend.