Starting from April 13, 2026, Saudi Arabia has put in place strict entry regulations for the holy city of Makkah ahead of the Hajj season. The General Directorate of Passports has announced the launch of an online application system for Makkah entry permits, accessible through the Absher and Muqeem digital platforms, as the Kingdom ramps up preparations for one of the world’s largest annual religious gatherings.
Under the updated regulations, expatriates residing in Saudi Arabia are no longer permitted to enter Makkah unless they hold a valid Hajj permit, a residency permit (iqama) issued specifically for Makkah, or an official work permit for the holy sites. The Ministry of Interior, through the Public Security Directorate, confirmed that these measures took effect on Monday, April 13, reinforcing a longstanding framework for managing pilgrimage access that has grown increasingly digitized in recent years.
How to Apply for the Makkah Entry Permit
The permit application process has been fully digitized, eliminating the need for in-person visits to passport offices. The Absher Individuals platform handles permits for GCC nationals, Premium Residency holders, investors, mothers of Saudi citizens, domestic workers, and non-Saudi family members. The Muqeem portal, on the other hand, is designated for employees of establishments based in Makkah and those holding employment contracts tied to holy site operations during the Hajj season.
All permit requests are processed through technical integration with Tasreeh, the unified digital platform for issuing Hajj permits, ensuring a seamless and secure verification process for every application submitted.
A Season of Careful Planning
The Hajj season represents one of the Kingdom’s most significant logistical operations each year, with millions of pilgrims converging on Makkah from across the globe. Saudi Arabia has consistently invested in technology, infrastructure, and regulatory frameworks to ensure safe and orderly access to the holy sites.
The introduction of mandatory e-permits for Makkah entry reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to crowd management and pilgrim safety — priorities that have shaped policy in this area for more than a decade. With Hajj 2026 approaching, the measures are expected to significantly reduce unauthorized movement into the city and allow authorities to better plan transportation, accommodation, and emergency services during peak pilgrimage weeks.
Entry Restrictions Now in Force
Alongside the new permit system, authorities have confirmed that access to Makkah is now restricted exclusively to individuals holding Hajj visas or valid local permits. Tourist and visit visas no longer qualify for entry into the holy city during this period. Saudi Arabia’s broader Hajj 2026 arrangements signal a continuation of its strategy to digitize and streamline the pilgrimage experience, in alignment with the goals set under Vision 2030 and the Kingdom’s long-term ambition to position itself as the world’s foremost destination for faith-based tourism.
