Hajj 2026: Saudi Arabia bars Makkah entry without permits, suspends Umrah visas to tighten crowd control

Saudi Arabia has rolled out sweeping new restrictions ahead of Hajj 2026, halting entry into Makkah without official permits and suspending Umrah visas as authorities prepare for one of the world’s largest annual religious gatherings.

The move, led by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in coordination with the Ministry of Interior, comes as the Kingdom strengthens crowd-control and safety measures amid expectations of millions of pilgrims arriving in the coming weeks.

Officials say the steps are essential to ensuring a safe and well-organised pilgrimage, particularly in light of past challenges linked to overcrowding and unauthorised participation.

Saudi tightens Hajj access control

From April 13, entry into Makkah is limited strictly to those holding valid Hajj permits or officially approved work and residency documents tied to the holy city. Authorities have clarified that all other visa holders — including tourists and Umrah pilgrims — will be denied access during this period.

In a statement carried by Saudi media, officials from the Ministry of Interior said the decision is aimed at “protecting the safety of pilgrims and ensuring smooth movement within the holy sites.” Security checkpoints have been reinforced along key entry routes into the city.

The Kingdom has increasingly relied on digital systems in recent years, integrating platforms like the Nusuk to verify pilgrim status and prevent unauthorised entry. Authorities warned that violators could face penalties including fines, deportation, and bans on future entry.

Key deadlines pilgrims must know

As Hajj approaches, Saudi Arabia has also suspended Umrah permits — a routine annual step to prepare the holy sites for the pilgrimage season.