Saudi Arabia restricts entry to Makkah to holders of Hajj visa

Foreign pilgrims and other visitors in the city for Umrah must leave by April 29, Saudi authorities reiterate

Entry and stay in the city between April 29 and June 10 will be strictly restricted. AFP

Pilgrims and visitors to Makkah will not be allowed into the city from April 29 without a valid Hajj permit, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.

The Ministry of Interior issued several directives and deadlines aimed at ensuring the safety of Hajj pilgrims.

Entry and stay in the city between April 29 and June 10 will be strictly restricted to holders of Hajj permits, individuals with valid residency IDs issued in Makkah or those authorised to work in the city during the period.

All foreign pilgrims and visitors must leave the city by April 29, authorities said, while Sunday, April 13, is the last day for Umrah pilgrims to enter the city and individuals who overstay the visa deadline could be penalised with deportation or jail time.

Umrah permits will not be issued through the Nusuk platform for Saudi citizens and expatriates and for GCC nationals with the suspension being in place from April 29 to June 10.

Saudi expatriates can apply for Hajj permits from April 23.