The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has recently announced a crucial update for individuals planning to perform Umrah this season. According to the ministry, the deadline for issuing permits to perform Umrah is set for the 15th of Dhul Qadah, to June 4.
This decision has made in anticipation of the arrival of Hajj pilgrims in Saudi Arabia, scheduled to begin on Sunday. It is important to note that the Umrah visa does not grant permission to participate in Hajj. All individuals with Umrah visas required to depart by the 20th of Dhul Qadah, which falls on June 18.
To enforce the guidelines for organizing Hajj 1444AH, the General Directorate of Public Security has implemented an entry ban to the holy city of Makkah for residents without a special entry pass for the Hajj season. Travelers lacking permits will be denied entry at checkpoints along the roads leading to Makkah.
The ban went into effect on the 25th of Shawwal. As per the guidelines, vehicles and expatriate residents must return to their place of origin unless they possess an entry permit issued by the competent authority to work in the holy sites. However, certain individuals exempted from this decision, including those holding a resident identity card (muqeem ID) issued from Makkah, an Umrah permit, or Hajj permit.
The General Directorate of Passports has commenced the process of receiving applications electronically for entry permits to the holy city. This service specifically caters to domestic workers, non-Saudi family members, workers employed in establishments based in the holy city, seasonal work visa holders, and contractors registered in the “Ajeer” system for Hajj season 1444AH.
The purpose of this service is to streamline procedures for beneficiaries, reduce processing time, and minimize effort. The “Absher Individuals” platform facilitates permits for domestic workers and non-Saudi family members, while the “Muqeem” portal offers access to entry permits for all agencies, according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
By adhering to these regulations and utilizing the available digital platforms, individuals can ensure a smoother experience when applying for entry permits for the holy city in preparation for the upcoming Hajj season.
