Haj 2024: Saudi Arabia bans visit visa holders from entering Makkah with immediate effect

Saudi Arabia has announced that anybody with a visit visa of any type will not be allowed to enter or stay in Makkah starting from Thursday.

In a post on social media platform X, Saudi’s interior ministry said that all types and names of visit visas are not considered permits for Haj pilgrimage holders.

The Saudi Ministry released the advisory, effective for travellers from May 23 and ending on June 21. These dates align with the 15th of Dhu al-Qadah, 1445 to the 15th of Dhul Hijjah in the Hijri calendar.


For those wishing to perform Haj in the Holy City of Makkah, only a Haj permit will allow them to do so. Any other form of visit visa is not considered a permit during this time, says UAE’s English daily Khaleej Times.

Earlier, Saudi Arabia had also banned performing Haj without a permit, in order to ensure the safety and security of pilgrims. Saudi residents are also required to show permits to enter Makkah since May 4.

“Visitors have been urged not to visit the city during this period or stay there without a Haj permit during this time. Those who violate this will have strict action taken against them,” says the Khaleej Times report.

Individuals entering Makkah without a Haj permit will face fines of 10,000 Saudi Riyals, applicable to citizens, expatriates, and visitors alike.