Saudi Arabia has enforced entry restrictions to Makkah and suspended Umrah permits as the Kingdom transitions into the official Hajj 2026 season. The measures, which took effect in stages from 13 April 2026, are designed to ensure the orderly arrival of Hajj pilgrims and the safety of all visitors to the Holy City.
Makkah Entry Restrictions From 13 April
As reported by Khaleej Times and Gulf Business, entry to Makkah has been restricted since 13 April 2026. Access to the Holy City is now limited to three categories of individuals:
- Holders of a valid Hajj permit
- Holders of a Makkah residency ID
- Holders of an authorised work permit for the Holy Sites
All other visa categories, including visit visas, tourist visas, and transit permits, do not grant access to Makkah or the surrounding Holy Sites during the Hajj season.
Umrah Permits Suspended From 18 April to 31 May
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah suspended the issuance of Umrah permits via the Nusuk platform with effect from 18 April 2026. The suspension applies to both international pilgrims and residents within GCC countries and will remain in place until 31 May 2026.
Those who arrived in the Kingdom on an Umrah visa were required to depart Saudi Arabia no later than 18 April 2026. The Ministry had previously set 2 April 2026 as the final date for international pilgrims to arrive in the Kingdom on an Umrah visa, and 19 March 2026 as the last date for new Umrah visa issuance internationally.
When Will Umrah Resume?
Umrah operations are expected to resume in early to mid-June 2026, once the Hajj season concludes and the Holy Sites return to standard access conditions. Pilgrims and travel agents planning Umrah trips should factor in a waiting period of several weeks after Eid al-Adha before services normalise.
Context: Why These Restrictions Are Imposed
The annual suspension of Umrah and restriction of Makkah entry is a standard measure implemented each year ahead of Hajj. The Hajj pilgrimage is expected to begin around 25 May 2026, corresponding to the 8th of Dhu al-Hijjah, with the Day of Arafah falling on 26 May and Eid al-Adha on 27 May 2026.
Managing the flow of millions of pilgrims into Makkah requires exclusive allocation of accommodation, roads, and services to Hajj permit holders. The restrictions ensure that resources are not overwhelmed by simultaneous Umrah visitors and Hajj pilgrims competing for the same infrastructure.
Advice for Travellers
Muslims planning to perform Umrah in the coming weeks should postpone their travel until after the Hajj season concludes. Those currently in Saudi Arabia on non-Hajj visas should be aware that attempting to enter Makkah without the appropriate documentation now carries financial penalties of up to 20,000 Saudi riyals. Pilgrims with confirmed Hajj packages should proceed with their travel plans through their registered operators and ensure all Nusuk permit documentation is in order before departure.