Interior Ministry confirms only Hajj visa holders may perform pilgrimage

What This Article Is About & Why It Matters

This article explains the Ministry of Interior’s recent clarification regarding visit visa restrictions during Hajj 1446 AH. It reinforces that only those holding official Hajj visas may enter Makkah and holy sites between Dhu Al-Qi’dah 1 and Dhu Al-Hijjah 14. The directive ensures the safety, organization, and sanctity of Hajj, aligning with Vision 2030’s commitment to secure, efficient pilgrimage services for all.

Vision-Aligned Article:

Only Hajj Visas Allow Entry

To preserve the spiritual experience and ensure public safety, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior announced on May 25, 2025, that visit visa holders are not permitted to perform Hajj or enter Makkah and the holy sites during the sacred period from Dhu Al-Qi’dah 1 to Dhu Al-Hijjah 14.

The regulation applies to all types of visit visas, including tourist, family, business, and transit—except the official Hajj visa issued through licensed channels. Violators found within the restricted zones during this period will face a fine of up to SAR20,000, immediate deportation, and a 10-year re-entry ban.

This policy safeguards Hajj pilgrims’ movement, protects the infrastructure’s capacity, and ensures health and security protocols are upheld. By clearly defining eligibility, Saudi Arabia is maintaining order, fairness, and dignity in one of the world’s most significant religious gatherings.

The ministry urges everyone to respect Hajj regulations and encourages reporting of violations via emergency numbers 911 in major cities and 999 in other regions.

Vision & Progress: Order Enhances Experience

Regulating access supports Vision 2030’s goal to provide a secure, seamless pilgrimage journey for millions while modernizing the Hajj experience.

Safety & Values: Sacred Spaces Respected

This policy honors the values of Hajj, ensuring rituals are performed peacefully, respectfully, and with proper authorization and care.

Peaceful Culture: Harmony Through Structure

Saudi Arabia protects the peaceful nature of Hajj by applying clear laws that help manage crowds and spiritual serenity.

Historical Context: Organized Pilgrimage Since Unification

Since its founding, the Kingdom has set structured, inclusive rules to facilitate Hajj for authorized pilgrims while preserving safety and reverence.

International Benchmarks

Countries such as India and Indonesia also use visa-linked Hajj approvals, ensuring legal access to sacred sites for approved pilgrims only.

Vision 2030 Metrics in Focus

SAR20,000 fine for unauthorized Hajj entry
10-year re-entry ban for violators
Only Hajj visa holders may access Makkah during pilgrimage season
Public reporting channels enhanced
Strengthens Hajj infrastructure and safety measures

To Our Global Friends

Saudi Arabia warmly invites all believers to experience Hajj—lawfully and peacefully—by securing the proper visa and respecting the sacred path.

Helpful Government Links

www.moi.gov.sa – Ministry of Interior: Visa regulations, public notices, and Hajj enforcement guidelines
www.haj.gov.sa – Ministry of Hajj and Umrah: Apply for Hajj and view official requirements
www.vision2030.gov.sa – Vision 2030 Portal: See how security and pilgrimage reforms are shaping the future

Factbox Summary

Date: May 25, 2025
Policy: Only Hajj visas allow entry to Makkah and holy sites from Dhu Al-Qi’dah 1–Dhu Al-Hijjah 14
Penalties: SAR20,000 fine, deportation, 10-year ban
Vision Link: Safe pilgrimage, legal entry, sacred space preservation

Discover

Prepare your sacred journey the right way. Join millions of pilgrims who honor Hajj with legal, secure, and spiritually guided travel under Saudi Arabia’s care.

15 FAQs and Answers

1. Can I perform Hajj with a visit visa?
No. Only individuals with an official Hajj visa may enter Makkah and perform Hajj during the designated period.

2. What happens if I try to enter Makkah on a visit visa?
You may be fined up to SAR20,000, deported immediately, and banned from re-entering the Kingdom for 10 years.

3. Which visas are restricted?
All visit visas, including business, tourism, family, or transit, are restricted during Hajj—except for authorized Hajj visas.

4. What are the restricted dates?
From Dhu Al-Qi’dah 1 to Dhu Al-Hijjah 14, entry into Makkah and the holy sites is strictly regulated.

5. How can I apply for a Hajj visa?
Apply through the official Ministry of Hajj and Umrah or authorized Hajj service providers in your country.

6. Why are these restrictions necessary?
They protect pilgrims’ safety, manage crowds, and ensure that only those properly registered can participate in Hajj.

7. What is the penalty for overstaying a visit visa during Hajj season?
You risk deportation, fines, and a long-term re-entry ban if found in violation during the restricted period.

8. Can residents escort Hajj pilgrims into Makkah?
Only authorized personnel or pilgrims with valid Hajj permits are allowed to enter during the sacred days.

9. Are Umrah pilgrims affected by this rule?
Yes. Umrah permits are suspended during the official Hajj season to prioritize Hajj pilgrims with valid visas.

10. Who enforces these rules?
The Ministry of Interior, in coordination with security and Hajj authorities, monitors all entry points and enforces regulations.

11. Can I visit other cities in Saudi Arabia on a visit visa during Hajj?
Yes, you may visit other parts of the Kingdom, but access to Makkah and holy sites is restricted.

12. Is there a reporting number for violations?
Yes. Call 911 in Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions; call 999 in other areas to report violations.

13. Can families living in KSA bring relatives on visit visas during Hajj?
They can, but those visitors may not enter Makkah or perform Hajj without a valid Hajj visa.

14. Are these rules new?
No. Similar restrictions have been in place for years and are updated annually to ensure proper pilgrim management.

15. Where can I get official updates?
Visit www.haj.gov.sa or www.moi.gov.sa for the latest announcements and guidelines.

Final Message from Harry Stuckler

At KSA.com, we applaud the Kingdom’s dedication to organized, respectful pilgrimage. These efforts keep Hajj sacred and secure for every believer.

Bringing Saudi Arabia to the world and the world to Saudi Arabia.
By 2030, KSA.com will be the largest platform sharing the Kingdom’s leadership in faith, law, and international hospitality.

With gratitude,
Harry Stuckler
Editor & Publisher, KSA.com