New Procedures Established for Entering Mecca and Performing Umrah

The Ministry of Interior of Saudi Arabia has announced new regulations for entering the city of Mecca and performing Umrah rituals in preparation for the 2026 Hajj season and to ensure the safety of pilgrims. This was reported by Zamin.uz.

These measures are aimed at maintaining order in the holy city and effectively managing the flow of pilgrims, and will take effect starting in the spring of next year. According to the new regulations, starting from April 13, 2026, a special permit will be required to enter the city of Mecca.

Entry for individuals without the relevant documentation will be strictly restricted. However, exceptions are provided for certain categories of persons.

Specifically, these restrictions will not apply to individuals with permanent residency in Mecca, holders of official Hajj visas, and workers who have obtained electronic permits to operate in the holy sites. At the same time, the deadline for departure from the country for foreign pilgrims who arrived in Saudi Arabia on an Umrah visa has been set for April 18, 2026.

From that date, the issuance of permits for performing Umrah will be temporarily suspended. These restrictive measures are planned to continue until May 31.

After this period, all foreign citizens who do not possess a Hajj visa will be prohibited from staying in or entering the city of Mecca. Ministry officials emphasized that these strict measures are necessary to conduct the Hajj season at a high level, safely and orderly.

A warning was issued that serious measures will be taken in accordance with the country's legislation against individuals who violate the established rules or attempt to enter the holy sites without a permit. Pilgrims are requested to arrange their travel plans in accordance with these changes.