This came in a statement titled "Arrangements and Procedures for the Security and Safety of the Guests of God in Preparation for the Hajj Season," published by the Saudi Ministry of Interior on its X platform account.
The statement explained that "it has been decided not to allow entry into or stay in the city of Makkah for holders of all types of visas, with the exception of those who have obtained a Hajj visa, starting from the date of 1 Dhu al-Qi'dah 1446 AH, corresponding to April 29 of this year."
He added, "Sunday, Shawwal 15, 1446 AH, corresponding to April 13, will be the last date for pilgrims to enter the Kingdom, and Tuesday, Dhu al-Qi'dah 1, 1446 AH, corresponding to April 29, will be the last date for their departure."
The statement confirmed that "Umrah permits will be banned from being issued through the government's Nusk platform, starting from the first of Dhul-Qi'dah until the 14th of Dhul-Hijjah 1446 AH, corresponding to June 10th."
Regarding the regulation of the entry of residents of the Kingdom to Mecca, the Ministry said in its statement: “As of Shawwal 25, 1446 AH, corresponding to April 23, entry to the Holy City requires a work permit, a resident ID issued by the Holy City, or a valid Hajj visa.”
These measures are part of the Kingdom's efforts to curb illegal Hajj pilgrimages, following the 2024 Hajj season, which saw large numbers of people sneak into Mecca to perform the rituals without obtaining a permit, increasing pressure on infrastructure and health services.
These pilgrims were not included in the official logistical plans, and therefore lacked adequate camps or services. This led them to encounter extremely harsh weather conditions, some of which led to the deaths of others.
The Hajj season for 1446 AH is expected to begin on 8 Dhu al-Hijjah 1446 AH, corresponding to June 4, 2025, and continue until 13 Dhu al-Hijjah 1446 AH, corresponding to June 9, 2025.
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