Regulations for entering Mecca: 4 new procedures for the Hajj season 1447 AH

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The Saudi Ministry of Interior announced a package of strict measures and regulations, including controls for entry into Mecca, as part of early and intensive preparations for the 1447 AH Hajj season. These proactive steps aim to maintain the safety and security of pilgrims and ensure they can perform their rituals with ease and tranquility, avoiding any overcrowding or disorganization that could disrupt the flow of movement in the holy sites.

Continuous development in crowd management and securing pilgrims

Over the decades, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has placed great emphasis on developing the Hajj and Umrah system. Historically, managing millions of pilgrims within a limited geographical area and a short timeframe has been a significant challenge. With remarkable technological advancements, the Kingdom has transitioned from traditional methods to relying on modern technologies and digital platforms such as “Absher” and “Nusk.” This digital transformation did not occur in a vacuum; rather, it is the culmination of long-standing efforts aimed at regulating crowd flow and preventing unauthorized pilgrimages or those who sleep in undesignated areas, reflecting the Saudi leadership’s commitment to providing a safe and healthy environment for all pilgrims.

Details of the new entry regulations for Mecca for the Hajj season of 1447 AH

To ensure the success of the operational plan, the relevant authorities identified four key actions, which are as follows:

First: Starting Monday, 25 Shawwal 1447 AH (corresponding to April 13, 2026), residents will be prohibited from entering the Holy City of Mecca without official permits. This decision excludes holders of a Mecca-issued residency permit, those with a Hajj permit, or those with an electronic work permit for the Holy Sites issued through the “Absher Individuals” or “Muqeem” portal linked to the “Tasreeh” platform.
Second: Saturday, 1 Dhul-Qa’dah 1447 AH (corresponding to April 18, 2026 AD) has been set as the last date for those arriving with an Umrah visa to leave the Kingdom’s territory.
Third: Suspending the issuance of Umrah permits through the “Nusk” application for all categories (citizens, residents, citizens of the Gulf countries, and holders of other visas) starting from 1 Dhu al-Qi’dah until Sunday 14 Dhu al-Hijjah 1447 AH (corresponding to 31 May 2026 AD).
Fourth: It is strictly forbidden for holders of all types of visas (except Hajj visas) to enter or stay in Mecca starting from 1 Dhu al-Qi'dah 1447 AH.

The strategic dimensions of Hajj organization and its regional and international impact

The importance of implementing entry controls to Mecca extends beyond the local aspects of maintaining security and easing pressure on infrastructure and healthcare facilities. Its implications are far-reaching, encompassing broad regional and international impacts. Regionally and internationally, these measures bolster the confidence of Islamic countries and Hajj missions in the Kingdom's ability to protect their citizens arriving to perform the pilgrimage. Saudi Arabia also presents a global model to be emulated in managing massive crowds and proactively addressing crises. These steps are perfectly aligned with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to enhance the quality of services provided to pilgrims and facilitate the hosting of increasing numbers in the future, adhering to the highest standards of quality and safety.

In conclusion, the Ministry of Interior stressed the importance of all citizens, residents, and visitors adhering to the regulations governing the Hajj season. It called for effective cooperation with security and relevant authorities to achieve the desired objectives, while simultaneously warning that any violation of these regulations will subject perpetrators to strict legal penalties, in order to ensure that the Holy Sites remain a safe and stable environment for all.