The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has firmly reiterated the essential requirement of obtaining an official permit for participation in the upcoming Hajj pilgrimage, scheduled for the 1446-2025 season. This directive, collaboratively orchestrated with the Saudi Ministry of the Interior, is aimed at ensuring both security and order during this monumental religious event, which gathers millions of pilgrims from around the globe. As the pilgrimage date approaches, strict measures will be enforced to maintain the sanctity and safety of this revered journey.
As the Hajj pilgrimage season approaches for 1446-2025, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has reiterated the critical need for an official Hajj permit to participate in the sacred event. This directive, made in conjunction with the Saudi Ministry of the Interior, aims to enhance security and maintain organization during the world’s largest religious gathering. Strict measures will come into effect from April 29 to June 11, 2025, ensuring only those with necessary permits can access Mecca.
Strict Regulations for Access to Mecca
During the period from April 29 to June 11, 2025, entry to Mecca will be strictly restricted. Individuals without a valid Hajj permit or an official residence or work permit will be denied access to the sacred city. Moreover, hotels and residences are mandated to refuse accommodation to those lacking a valid permit, with heavy penalties imposed for non-compliance.
Planned Penalties for Offenders
The Saudi authorities have established significant penalties for those who ignore these regulations. Offenders caught without the required permit can face:
- A fine of 20,000 Saudi riyals for anyone without a permit, including Saudi citizens, residents, and visitors. For repeat offenders, the fine doubles for citizens and residents of the Gulf Cooperation Council.
- A fine of 100,000 Saudi riyals for individuals who facilitate entry for others attempting the Hajj without a permit.
- Expulsion and a ban on re-entering Saudi Arabia for foreigners who violate these laws, with the duration determined by the severity of the violation.
- Prison sentences of up to six months along with fines for individuals transporting offenders, possibly resulting in vehicle confiscation and deportation for expatriates.
Official Procedure for Obtaining a Hajj Permit
The Nusuk Hajj platform serves as the sole legitimate channel for booking and managing the pilgrimage. Attempting to perform the Hajj on a tourist or Umrah visa will incur the same penalties, including fines, deportation, and prohibition from returning to the Kingdom.
Objectives of the Newly Implemented Measures
These updated regulations are designed to achieve several key objectives:
- Prevent overcrowding and ensure the safety of pilgrims.
- Combat fraud associated with illegal Hajj campaigns.
- Guarantee that the pilgrimage proceeds in a safe and orderly manner.
Vigilance Against Fraudulent Campaigns
In light of these measures, the Ministry has urged the public to remain vigilant against fraudulent campaigns circulating on social media. Individuals are encouraged to report any suspicious activity through dedicated emergency numbers; 911 for Mecca, Riyadh, and the Eastern region, and 999 for other areas.
Warnings to Prevent Fraud
Several countries’ consulates and embassies have informed their nationals about the importance of complying with Saudi entry regulations during the Hajj pilgrimage. They recommend postponing travel to Saudi Arabia if they have not secured a Hajj permit, emphasizing that tourist or Umrah visas are insufficient for this pilgrimage.
Officials from Morocco and Tunisia have echoed these sentiments, cautioning their citizens on compliance with established regulations. The Délégation Générale au Pèlerinage (DGP) has been made aware of incidents involving pilgrimage visa fraud perpetrated by private tour operators, which the Senegalese penal code classifies as administrative document forgery.
In anticipation of a safe and successful Hajj, adherence to these measures is paramount for all pilgrims. For further details on travel requirements and updates, the Ministry encourages travelers to consult official resources.
- Permit Requirement: Mandatory for all pilgrims.
- Strict Access: Limited to authorized individuals only.
- Hotel Regulations: Accommodation for permit holders only.
- Penalties: Fines and expulsion for offenders.
- Official Procedure: Use of the Nusuk Hajj platform.
- Fraud Prevention: Vigilance against illegal campaigns.
- International Alerts: Awareness for non-compliance among tourists.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has reiterated the importance of obtaining an official Hajj permit as the 1446-2025 season approaches. Strict regulations will be enforced from April 29 to June 11, 2025, prohibiting access to Mecca for anyone without a valid permit. This initiative, coordinated with the Saudi Interior Ministry, aims to ensure safety and organization during this significant religious gathering. Violators may face severe penalties, including substantial fines and expulsion. The Nusuk Hajj platform remains the sole official source for managing pilgrimage bookings.
Hello! I’m Elisa, a 45-year-old travel companion with a passion for exploring new places and cultures. With years of travel experience under my belt, I thrive on creating memorable journeys for my clients. Let’s embark on an adventure together!
