Saudi Interior Ministry: Visit Visas and Hajj

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior has reiterated that visit visas of all types do not authorize their holders to perform Hajj, urging visitors to comply with the regulations governing the pilgrimage season and not to travel to or remain in Makkah in violation of official rules.

The warning comes as part of Hajj 1447 AH arrangements. Saudi authorities said that, starting April 13, 2026, residents seeking to enter Makkah must obtain official permits, while entry to and stay in the holy city from April 29, 2026, is limited to holders of Hajj visas only.

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah also states in its updated FAQ that Hajj cannot be performed using a visit or work visa, and that pilgrims must hold either a valid national ID or valid residency status, reinforcing the distinction between visit travel and authorized pilgrimage access.

Saudi authorities have also announced penalties for violations. These include fines of up to SAR 20,000 for anyone caught performing or attempting to perform Hajj without a permit, or for visit visa holders who attempt to enter or remain in Makkah and the holy sites during the restricted period. Fines of up to SAR 100,000 may apply to those who facilitate such violations through transport, shelter, or other assistance. Authorities also said infiltrators may be deported and banned from re-entering the Kingdom for 10 years, while vehicles used in such violations may be subject to court-ordered confiscation.

The measures reflect Saudi Arabia’s broader effort to organize the Hajj season, protect authorized pilgrims, and underline that the correct visa category and official permit are essential conditions for performing the pilgrimage lawfully.