Saudi Bans Makkah Entry Without Hajj Permit

In a major announcement ahead of Hajj 2025, the Saudi Arabian government has officially declared that entry to the holy city of Makkah will be strictly prohibited without a valid Hajj permit, starting from April 29, 2025. The decision aims to ensure better crowd control, uphold security, and maintain the sanctity of the pilgrimage.

• Entry ban to Makkah starts April 29, 2025

• Only individuals with valid Hajj permits will be allowed

• The ban applies to all local and international pilgrims

• Security checkpoints to be increased around Makkah

• Strict penalties for violators

• The measure ensures a safe and organized Hajj experience

Saudi Arabia receives millions of pilgrims every year for Hajj. In recent years, concerns over overcrowding, safety, and illegal entry attempts have increased. The government is taking proactive steps to:

• Regulate the number of pilgrims

• Prevent unauthorized entry

• Ensure proper accommodation and resources

• Enhance pilgrim safety and well-being

The Ministry of Interior emphasized that the move aligns with Vision 2030, a broader national initiative to modernize the Kingdom and improve services related to Hajj and Umrah.

The new regulation will affect:

• Residents in Saudi Arabia attempting to perform Hajj without a permit

• International pilgrims who fail to register through official Hajj programs

• Unauthorized tour operators facilitating unlicensed Hajj trips

Government officials confirmed that violators will face penalties, including fines, deportation, and bans from future pilgrimages.

According to an official from the Ministry of Interior:

“This initiative is not to restrict access but to safeguard the lives of pilgrims and ensure a smooth, secure Hajj experience. We urge everyone to respect the rules and plan ahead.”

The Ministry of Hajj also stated:

“We are introducing advanced digital systems to make the registration process easier and more transparent.”

To apply for a permit, pilgrims must:

1. Register on the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah portal

2. Submit passport and vaccination details

3. Choose an authorized Hajj operator

4. Pay official fees

5. Receive digital permit via email or mobile app

International pilgrims must coordinate with approved Hajj missions in their country.

The Saudi government has also made special arrangements for women, elderly pilgrims, and people with disabilities. These include:

• Dedicated service desks

• Priority access to healthcare

• Specialized transportation and accommodation

This is in line with the Kingdom’s efforts to make Hajj more inclusive and accessible for all.

The news has received mixed reactions:

 Many praised the move for its focus on safety and organization
 Some locals voiced concern over the strictness of the enforcement

However, religious leaders and Hajj authorities worldwide have welcomed the step, calling it necessary to preserve the spiritual and logistical sanctity of the pilgrimage.

Despite the permit requirement, the number of pilgrims is expected to surpass 2 million this year. With enhanced systems in place, Saudi Arabia is prepared to deliver a seamless experience for all registered pilgrims.

The decision to ban entry to Makkah without a Hajj permit is a step forward in creating a safe, structured, and spiritually fulfilling pilgrimage for all Muslims. As the Kingdom continues to modernize its Hajj operations, it calls on the global Muslim community to respect, adapt, and comply with these regulations.