As Muslims around the world prepare for the annual pilgrimage, Saudi Arabia has announced a set of new travel regulations for Hajj 2025 that are crucial for all prospective pilgrims, especially those residing in the region. The rules, announced by the Ministry of Interior and reported by the Saudi Press Agency, aim to ensure smooth operations and enhance the safety of millions expected to travel to Makkah between Wednesday, June 4, and Monday, June 9, 2025.
The changes impact a wide range of travelers—from Umrah visa holders to local residents and international visitors—and will be strictly enforced. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of everything you need to know.
Deadline for Umrah Visa Entry and Exit
To reduce congestion and ensure manageable crowd control ahead of Hajj, Saudi authorities have imposed fixed deadlines for Umrah visa holders:
- Last date to enter the Kingdom: Sunday, April 13
- Last date to exit the Kingdom: Tuesday, April 29
Anyone staying beyond this exit date without a valid Hajj permit risks penalties, deportation, or being barred from future entry.
Makkah Entry Restrictions for Local Residents
Starting Wednesday, April 23, even residents living within Saudi Arabia must obtain a special permit to enter the city of Makkah. This rule serves to reduce unnecessary traffic within the holy city during peak pilgrimage preparations.
Permits will be granted under specific conditions:
- Residents must apply via the Absher Individuals or Muqeem Portal
- Exemptions apply to:
- Makkah residents with city-issued ID
- Those holding valid Hajj permits
- Employees with approved work permits within the holy sites
Unauthorized individuals attempting to enter Makkah will be stopped at security checkpoints and returned to their original location.
Suspension of Umrah Permits via Nusuk Platform
Saudi Arabia is temporarily stopping the issuance of Umrah permits via the Nusuk platform, a widely used tool for pilgrims to schedule their rituals.
From Tuesday, April 29 until Monday, June 10, citizens of:
- Saudi Arabia
- Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries
- Residents within the Kingdom
- Other visa holders
…will not be able to secure Umrah permits through the platform. Authorities are streamlining logistics during the high-traffic Hajj period with this step.
Makkah Access Limited to Hajj Visa Holders
To safeguard pilgrims and ensure crowd control, only those with official Hajj visas will be allowed to enter or remain in Makkah starting April 29. All other types of visas, including tourism and business, will not qualify for access to the city during this period.
This blanket restriction will stay in place until after the Hajj season concludes. Visitors violating the regulation may face immediate deportation or a ban from future entries.
Visa Ban for Select Countries Ahead of Hajj
In another significant move, Saudi Arabia has imposed a temporary ban on issuing new short-term visas for citizens from 14 countries, citing the need to regulate travel flow during the busy Hajj season. The suspended visa types include:
- Business visit visas (single- and multiple-entry)
- E-tourist visas
- Family visit visas
The countries affected by the temporary ban are:
- India
- Egypt
- Pakistan
- Yemen
- Tunisia
- Morocco
- Jordan
- Nigeria
- Algeria
- Indonesia
- Iraq
- Sudan
- Bangladesh
- Libya
This move primarily aims to reduce pressure on immigration systems, transport hubs, and health and safety resources as millions prepare for the sacred pilgrimage.
Implications for UAE and GCC Pilgrims
For residents of the UAE and other GCC nations, the announcement holds special significance. While these residents enjoy streamlined visa access to Saudi Arabia under normal circumstances, the new Hajj season restrictions will apply equally.
- UAE pilgrims must ensure they do not rely on standard travel visas or Umrah permits between April 29 and June 10.
- Only approved Hajj permits issued through licensed agents or platforms will be honored for entry into Makkah.
With many Emiratis and residents planning their trips early, these updates are a timely reminder to begin preparations only through official Hajj channels.
Stay Informed to Avoid Travel Disruption
The new measures for Hajj 2025 reflect Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to streamline pilgrim management, enhance safety protocols, and minimize logistical challenges. While the rules may appear restrictive, they are intended to protect the sanctity of Hajj and ensure a seamless experience for all participants.
Officials advise prospective pilgrims—especially from the UAE and GCC—to check hajj.nusuk.sa for updates and book only through licensed Hajj operators.
As the countdown to Hajj 2025 begins, staying informed and prepared is key to ensuring a spiritually fulfilling and stress-free pilgrimage. With major changes in visa policies, entry restrictions, and permit processes, early planning through official channels has never been more important.
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