As the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia gears up for the annual Hajj pilgrimage, authorities have announced the opening of digital applications for Makkah entry permits for expats. This move is part of the government’s broader effort to streamline access control to the holy city during the busy pilgrimage period and ensure that all visitors comply with established regulations.
NO HAJJ WITHOUT A PERMIT
— ???????? (@HaramainInfo) April 12, 2025
In preparation for Hajj 1446 AH, the Ministry of Interior announces regulations to ensure the safety of all pilgrims:
Last date for Umrah entry: Sunday, 13 April 2025
Last date for Umrah exit: Tuesday, 29 April 2025
From 23 April 2025, entry to Makkah… pic.twitter.com/lQMiyD2LjF
Digital Application Process Now Open via Absher Platform
The Saudi General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) confirmed that electronic Makkah entry permits are now available for expatriates residing within the Kingdom. Eligible residents submit requests via Absher, Saudi Arabia’s widely used government services portal.
This digital application system will reduce paperwork, speed up processing, and advance Saudi Arabia’s vision of digitizing public services.
Strict Entry Controls Implemented for Hajj and Umrah Seasons
Each year, Saudi authorities regulate access to Makkah during Hajj and Umrah to ensure safety, crowd management, and the sanctity of religious rites. Saudi authorities require all non-Saudi residents who do not hold a Hajj permit or are not officially working in Makkah to obtain entry approval before traveling to the city.
The rule applies not only to private individuals but also to companies and institutions transporting workers through the city. Unauthorized entry during the pilgrimage season is considered a serious violation and can result in hefty fines or deportation.
The General Directorate of Passports will strictly enforce entry permit checks at all Makkah checkpoints, especially at the start of the Hajj season.
Increased Focus on Safety and Regulation for the 2025 Hajj
The Hajj season in 2025 is expected to see millions of pilgrims arriving from across the globe, including a significant number from Gulf nations such as the UAE. With this influx, Saudi authorities are heightening security and health protocols.
The digital permit system aligns with Vision 2030, improving safety, logistics, and crowd management for major religious events.
An Interior Ministry official said online permits ensure fair, regulated access to Makkah and improve religious tourism management.
What Expats Need to Know Before Applying
To apply for a Makkah entry permit via Absher, expats must:
- Have a valid Iqama (residency permit)
- Not be registered as a Hajj pilgrim for the year
- Submit the application within the announced time window
- Specify the reason for travel and obtain employer or sponsor approval, if required
Not all applications may be approved if they don’t meet Hajj season requirements. Those working in sectors essential to Makkah operations—such as healthcare, transportation, or security—are more likely to receive permits.
Employers must ensure workers traveling through Makkah have valid permits to avoid penalties.
UAE Relevance: Travel Agencies and Pilgrims Take Note
For expatriates residing in Dubai and across the UAE planning to travel to Saudi Arabia for Umrah or in transit to Makkah for other purposes, these rules serve as a reminder to double-check eligibility and documentation.
Travel operators offering Hajj and Umrah packages are also advised to stay updated on permit requirements and communicate them clearly to clients to avoid any last-minute disruptions.
While the new permit system directly affects expats inside the Kingdom, it adds another layer of preparation for those visiting Makkah from abroad, particularly those transiting through Saudi Arabia via land routes.
Digital Governance
The introduction of digital Makkah entry permits for expats underscores Saudi Arabia’s ongoing shift toward e-governance and digital transformation. Saudi Arabia adopts digital platforms like Absher for religious logistics, showcasing a shift toward tech-driven services.
Saudi authorities digitize processes to boost efficiency, transparency, safety, and visitor experience during religious events.
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