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Saudi Arabia tightens Makkah entry rules from April 13 mandatory permits for residents and visitors
Travel
Published on 24 April 2026

Umrah visa holders face a hard April 18 departure date
Saudi Arabia has introduced new Hajj season regulations restricting access to Makkah. From April 13, foreign nationals and residents without official permits will be denied entry. Umrah visa holders must leave by April 18, and after that date, Makkah entry will be limited to Hajj visa holders. Authorities urge strict compliance to avoid disruption and ensure safety.
- Permits become mandatory for Makkah entry from April 13
- Foreign nationals and residents without permits will be barred
- Umrah visa holders must depart by April 18
- After April 18, access is limited to Hajj visa holders
Read the full story at The Economic Times
This summarization was done by Beige for a story published on
The Economic Times
