The move, led by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in coordination with the Ministry of Interior, comes as the Kingdom ramps up crowd-control and safety systems amid expectations of millions of pilgrims arriving over the coming weeks, according to The Times of India.
Officials say the measures are critical to ensuring a safe and organised pilgrimage, especially after past challenges linked to overcrowding and unauthorised participation.
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Hajj access control tightened
From April 13, entry into Makkah is reportedly restricted to only those holding valid Hajj permits or officially approved work and residency documents linked to the holy city. Authorities, as per The Times of India, have made it clear that all other visa holders, including tourists and Umrah pilgrims, will be denied access during this period.
In a statement carried by Saudi media, officials from the Ministry of Interior stressed that the decision aims to “protect the safety of pilgrims and ensure smooth movement within the holy sites.” They added that security checkpoints have been reinforced across key entry routes into Makkah.
The Kingdom has increasingly relied on digital permit systems in recent years, reportedly integrating platforms such as the Nusuk app to verify pilgrim status and prevent unauthorised entry. Authorities warned that violators could face penalties including fines, deportation, and bans from future entry.
Important deadlines for Pilgrims
As Hajj approaches, Saudi Arabia has officially suspended Umrah permits, a standard annual move to prepare the holy sites.
The last date for Umrah visa issuance is March 19, 2026. The final entry into Saudi Arabia on an Umrah visa is reportedly between April 2 and 3, 2026, and the final exit deadline for Umrah pilgrims is April 18, 2026.
What happens if deadlines are not met?
Umrah visa holders will not be allowed to enter the Kingdom. Staying in Makkah without a Hajj permit is reportedly not allowed. Even valid visas do not override these restrictions.
Authorities will begin clearing Umrah pilgrims from the holy cities to make way for Hajj operations.
Expected Pilgrims
Saudi Arabia began issuing Hajj visas on February 8, 2026, marking an early start to international pilgrimage coordination. According to officials, the first wave of pilgrims is expected to arrive from April 18 onward, with arrivals continuing in phases.
While final numbers are yet to be officially confirmed, early indicators suggest participation could match or exceed previous years. In 2025, Hajj saw over 1.8 million pilgrims, and authorities expect a similar or higher turnout this year as global travel demand stabilises.
What do pilgrims need to know for Hajj 2026?
Saudi authorities have made their message clear: entry into Makkah during the Hajj season is strictly regulated and only possible with an approved Hajj permit. Umrah travel remains suspended until after the pilgrimage, which is expected to conclude in June, after which services will gradually resume.
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Travellers are advised to follow official timelines closely, complete bookings through authorised platforms, and avoid relying on visit or tourist visas for Hajj access. Officials have reportedly warned that violations could result in heavy fines, deportation, and long-term entry bans.
As preparations intensify, Saudi Arabia is positioning Hajj 2026 as a tightly managed, technology-driven pilgrimage. This will prioritise safety, efficiency, and a more controlled flow of millions entering Islam’s holiest city.
