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Planning for Hajj 2025? Discover the 5 essential rules set by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior for pilgrims and Umrah visa holders. Avoid penalties and ensure a smooth pilgrimage experience.
Hajj 2025: 5 Important Rules You Need to Know Before Entering Makkah
Published: April 14, 2025
Author: Nida Sohail
Source: Saudi Press Agency | Image Credit: Getty Images
As the sacred journey of Hajj 2025 approaches, the Saudi Ministry of Interior has issued five key rules to ensure the safety, security, and organization of all pilgrims. These guidelines are crucial for anyone planning to perform Hajj or Umrah, as non-compliance may result in fines, denial of entry, or deportation.
Here are the 5 important Hajj 2025 rules all pilgrims must be aware of:
🕌 Rule 1: Final Entry Date for Umrah Visa Holders
The last day Umrah visa holders can enter Saudi Arabia is:
📅 April 13, 2025 (Shawwal 15, 1446 AH)
After this date, no new entries will be allowed under Umrah visas.
✈️ Rule 2: Deadline for Departing Saudi Arabia
All Umrah visa holders must exit the Kingdom by:
📅 April 29, 2025 (Dhu al-Qi’dah 1, 1446 AH)
Staying beyond this date may result in legal action or overstay fines.
🛂 Rule 3: Entry Permit Requirements for Residents
From April 23, 2025 (Shawwal 25, 1446 AH), residents of Saudi Arabia must obtain an official permit to enter the holy city of Makkah.
✅ Exemptions include:
- Holders of work permits for the holy sites
- Residents with IDs issued by Makkah
- Those with a valid Hajj permit
📲 Permits can be applied for via the “Absher Individuals” and “Muqeem” platforms.
🚫 Rule 4: Suspension of Umrah Permits via Nusuk
The Nusuk platform will suspend Umrah permit issuance from:
📅 April 29 to June 10, 2025
This restriction applies to:
- Saudi citizens
- Residents
- GCC nationals
- Holders of various visa types
🧳 Rule 5: Hajj Visa Requirement to Enter Makkah
Beginning April 29, 2025, only pilgrims with a valid Hajj visa will be allowed to:
- Enter Makkah
- Remain in Makkah
Anyone without a Hajj visa will be denied entry or deported.
⚠️ Important Reminder
The Ministry of Interior emphasizes strict compliance with these rules and urges all pilgrims and residents to cooperate with relevant authorities. Violations may lead to legal penalties, including fines, detention, or removal from the Kingdom.
✅ Key Takeaways for Hajj 2025 Pilgrims:
- Final Umrah visa entry: April 13, 2025
- Umrah visa holders must leave: April 29, 2025
- Makkah entry permits required for residents from April 23
- No Umrah permits via Nusuk: April 29 – June 10
- Only Hajj visa holders allowed in Makkah starting April 29
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