According to the update,
starting from April 13, 2026, a
special permit is required to enter Mecca. Individuals without a permit will be
denied entry to the city. Exceptions are made only for residents with a Mecca
residency permit, holders of a Hajj visa, and individuals with official permits
to work in the holy sites.
Furthermore, the final
deadline for Umrah visa holders to leave the country has been set for April 18. Starting from April 18 until
May 31, the issuance of Umrah permits will be temporarily suspended. This
restriction applies to Saudi citizens, GCC residents, domestic residents, and
holders of other visa types.
Additionally, starting
April 18, all visa holders (except for those with a Hajj visa) are prohibited
from entering or remaining in the city of Mecca. The Ministry emphasized that
legal actions will be taken against those who violate these requirements.