Saudi Arabia restricts entry to...

The move aims to streamline procedures ahead of Haj season

Saudi Arabia's General Directorate of Public Security has announced that permits will now be required in order to enter Makkah.

Haj pilgrims wishing to enter Makkah will be required to obtain a permit from the relevant authorities.

The service aims to shorten the time it takes to apply for a permit. Permits to the Makkah are accessible through the electronic 'Muqeem' portal for all agencies.

The regulations for this year’s Haj season state that only those who work in the holy sites and have entry permits and those with a resident’s identity card issued by Makkah, an Umrah permit or a pilgrimage permit will be allowed to enter Makkah.

The General Directorate of Passports has started receiving applications for entry permits to Makkah electronically for domestic resident workers and non-Saudi family members, as well as workers residing in establishments based in the Holy Capital, seasonal work visa holders and contractors with those establishments registered in Ajeer system, during the Haj season.

For more information, visit www.my.gov.sa/wps/portal/snp/main\