The government of Saudi Arabia forbade travellers with visit visas from May 23 to June 21 from entering Makkah or getting the Hajj. An individual needs to obtain a Hajj permit or a Saudi Hajj visa to be permitted to make the trip.
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior stated in a post on X that “visit visas of all types and names do not entitle their holder to perform Hajj, and instructions require obtaining a permit for that.”
This indicates that visiting visas do not authorise the performance of the Hajj. “Temporary visas, like student visas or Schengen visas, are not accepted,” stated the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah-supervised website Nusuk Hajj.
“It is strongly advised that visitors avoid visiting the city between Thursday, May 23, and Friday, June 21, or remain there without valid Hajj permission during this time. The Khaleej Times stated that those who disobey this will face severe consequences.
To perform the Hajj in the Holy City of Makkah, one needs a permit. Any other type of visit visa is not regarded as a permit during this period.
It was formerly advised to pilgrims to carry their identity cards at all times during the ‘Hajj period’.
What happens if the rule is violated?
Saudi Arabia issued a warning, stating that disobeying Hajj restrictions would have catastrophic repercussions.
“Citizens, residents, and visitors who are found in Makkah and the holy sites without a Haj permit will be subject to a fine of SR10,000 ($2,666),” the ministry stated in a statement that was published on X earlier this week.
The ministry stated in the statement, “Repeat offenders will face deportation and a ban from entering Saudi Arabia, and the fine will double.”
