Saudi Arabia Restricts Mecca Entry To Permit Holders From April 13, 2026
Key Takeaways
- Mecca entry restricted to individuals with official permits starting April 13, 2026.
- Residents and expatriates without permits barred from entering Mecca.
- Permits must be obtained from competent authorities before Mecca entry.
Mecca Entry Permit
Saudi Arabia has implemented a new permit system restricting entry to Mecca for residents and foreign nationals without official authorization.
“Warning message, drone deployments, police operations”
Residents must obtain official permits, with exceptions only for those holding a residency ID issued from Mecca, a Hajj permit, or a work permit in the holy sites.
Public Security confirmed that residents without valid permits will be barred from entering Mecca, and checkpoints are turning back those who fail to meet requirements.
The General Directorate of Passports launched electronic applications for Mecca entry permits through the Absher and Muqeem portals.
The Ministry of Interior stressed these measures are designed to ensure the safety of pilgrims and regulate movement inside Mecca.
Umrah Suspension and Deadlines
Saudi Arabia has suspended the issuance of Umrah permits via the Nusuk platform from April 18 to May 31, 2026.
The Ministry of Interior set April 18 as the last date for departure of those arriving on Umrah visas.
Entry into Mecca or staying there will not be allowed for holders of visas of all types except those with a Hajj visa.
Authorities warned that staying in Mecca after the deadline without a Hajj visa will be considered a legal offense.
The Kingdom began issuing Hajj visas on February 8, 2026.
Enforcement and Penalties
Authorities have deployed checkpoints to enforce the new rules.
Violators face penalties including fines, deportation, and bans from future entry.
Public Security warned that violations will invite penalties.
The Ministry of Interior urged compliance with the regulations governing the Hajj season.
The measures apply to individuals who do not have a work permit for the holy sites.
Iranian Visa Suspension
Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended issuing visas for Umrah and family visits to Iranian citizens.
The suspension is a precautionary measure and will remain in effect until the end of the Hajj.
The temporary ban does not apply to pilgrims with an official Hajj visa.
The countries affected include Iran, Nigeria, Yemen, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, Chad, Niger, Mali, DRC, CAR, Libya, Sudan, and Pakistan.
This decision comes amid rising tensions between Riyadh and Tehran.
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