Interior Ministry announces preparations to ensure safety of pilgrims for this year’s Hajj season

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has announced important dates for pilgrims this year. Firstly, the deadline for pilgrims to enter the kingdom is Sunday, April 13, 2025. Secondly, the deadline for pilgrims to leave the kingdom is Tuesday, April 29, 2025. Starting from Wednesday, April 23, 2025, residents wishing to enter the holy capital city must obtain permits from the relevant authorities. Residents without proper permits will be prevented from entering and will be returned to their place of origin. Permits to enter the city of Mecca will be granted to residents holding permits to work in the holy sites, issued by the competent authority, or those carrying resident IDs issued by the holy capital, or those with Hajj permits. Permits for residents working during the Hajj season will be issued electronically through the “Absher Individuals” platform and the “Mak’em Portal.”

Furthermore, the issuance of Umrah permits through the “Nesuk” platform for Saudi citizens, GCC residents, residents within the kingdom, and holders of other visas will be suspended from Tuesday, April 29, 2025, until Monday, June 10, 2025. As of Tuesday, April 29, 2025, entry and stay in Mecca will not be permitted for visa holders except for those with Hajj visas. The Ministry of Interior has urged compliance with the regulations for this year’s Hajj season and cooperation with relevant authorities to ensure the security and safety of pilgrims. Violators of these regulations will face legal penalties.