RIYADH: In preparation for this year’s Hajj season, the Ministry of Interior announced arrangements and procedures aimed at preserving pilgrims’ safety and enabling them to perform the Hajj rituals with ease and peace of mind.
From April 23, residents within the Kingdom wishing to enter Makkah must obtain permits from the relevant authorities, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Residents without proper permits will be barred from entering Makkah and will be returned to their original destinations, the ministry said.
The ministry added that exemptions apply to residents with a work permit for the holy sites issued by the relevant authority, those with a resident ID issued by Makkah, or those with valid Hajj permits.
Entry permits for residents working during the Hajj season are issued electronically via the Absher Individuals and Muqeem portal, the SPA reported.
Authorities also suspended the issuance of Umrah permits through the Nusuk platform for citizens of the Kingdom, Gulf Cooperation Council countries, residents within the Kingdom, and holders of other visas from April 29 until June 10.
No one holding any type of visa will be permitted to enter or remain in Makkah — except those with Hajj visas — starting April 29, the ministry said.
Earlier, the ministry announced that the last date for Umrah visa holders to enter the Kingdom is April 13, and the last date to leave is April 29, the SPA reported.
Companies and establishments serving pilgrims and Umrah performers that fail to report any delays to the relevant authorities could face fines of up to SR100,000 ($26,600), with legal action being taken against those responsible.
Fines will be multiplied depending on how many individuals are in breach of the departure deadlines, according to the SPA.
The Ministry of Interior is urging compliance with Hajj regulations and cooperation with relevant authorities to ensure pilgrims’ safety.
