Riyadh – Arab Canada News

The Saudi Ministry of Interior announced, on Sunday, a number of new organizational arrangements related to the entry of pilgrims and residents to the holy city of Mecca, as part of the Kingdom's efforts to ensure the security and safety of pilgrims during the Hajj season of 1446 AH (2025 AD).

According to the ministry's statement, the last date for pilgrims to enter the Kingdom was Sunday, 15 Shawwal 1446 AH, corresponding to April 13, 2025, while the last date for their departure from the Kingdom will be Tuesday, 1 Dhu al-Qi'dah 1446 AH, corresponding to April 29, 2025.

Starting Wednesday, 25 Shawwal 1446 AH (April 23, 2025), entry for residents into Mecca will be prohibited unless they hold official permits issued by the relevant authorities, and the permits include the following categories:

Residents who hold work permits in the holy sites.

Residents holding residence cards issued by Mecca.

Those holding official Hajj permits.

Issuance of entry permits for working residents during the Hajj season will be available through the official electronic platforms "Absher Individuals" and "Muqeem Portal".

The Saudi authorities also decided to stop issuing Umrah permits through the "Nusk" platform for all citizens and residents in the Kingdom, in addition to citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, starting from Tuesday, 1 Dhu al-Qi'dah until Monday, 14 Dhu al-Hijjah 1446 AH (from April 29 to June 10, 2025).

The ministry confirmed in its statement that entry or stay in Mecca is not allowed for anyone holding visas of other types, except for the Hajj visa, starting from the same date.

These measures come as part of the annual security and organizational plans adopted by the Kingdom to ensure the smooth flow of crowds and ensure the safety of the guests of الرحمن during their rituals.