The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced a set of new measures aimed at organizing this year's Hajj season and ensuring pilgrims' safety.

These measures include the identification of visa types permitted for performing Hajj and Umrah, entry permits to Mecca, and the deadline for completing Umrah.

Ministry Warns of Fraudulent Hajj Advertisements

The Ministry has issued a warning against scams related to Hajj and Umrah, which include misleading promotional campaigns on social media.

It specifically cautioned against false advertisements claiming to offer accommodation and transportation for pilgrims within holy sites, urging reports on any such violations, as per the Saudi Press Agency.

Furthermore, the ministry confirmed that the last date for Umrah pilgrims holding valid visas to depart is Tuesday, the first of Dhul-Qi'dah 1446, corresponding to April 29, 2025, in preparation for the Hajj season.

Types of Visas That Do Not Permit Hajj

According to the ministry, all visa types do not authorize the holder to perform Hajj, except for those arriving on a Hajj visa. Attempting to perform Hajj without a permit is considered a violation of the regulatory framework.

Moreover, the Saudi Tourism Ministry emphasized that all hospitality providers in Mecca are prohibited from accommodating individuals without Hajj permits or permissions for work or residency during the Hajj season, starting from the first of Dhul-Qi'dah 1446 (April 29, 2025) until the season concludes.

How to Verify Your Visa Before Traveling

To ensure the validity of your visa prior to traveling for religious duties, you can utilize the newly launched "Tashree" platform or the "Nusk" platform.

Users can access the "Inquiry About Application" service on the website, which asks for the application number or passport number along with a verification code to check the accuracy of the information entered.

Once you click on "Inquiry," a window will display all details pertaining to the visa, such as its type, validity period, issuance date, and any pertinent remarks for the user.

This method has proven to be 100% effective, with data regularly updated to allow for monitoring requests at any time and from anywhere.

It is crucial to enter accurate information, as this is the key to a successful inquiry, so users are advised to double-check their details before submission.

Official Steps to Protect Pilgrims from Fraud

This announcement coincides with the Ministry of Interior's announcement of measures intended to safeguard the pilgrims and facilitate a secure and tranquil Hajj experience.

These arrangements include barring individuals holding various types of visas, except for Hajj visa holders, from entering or remaining in Mecca starting from Tuesday, Dhul-Qi'dah 1, 1446.

Additionally, the ministry noted that hospitality providers are strictly forbidden from accommodating those categories specified in the Ministry of Interior's announcement during the designated period, as part of a continued effort to ensure the safety and security of the Hajj, in collaboration with other governmental agencies in preparation for the 1446 Hajj season.

The Ministry of Interior urged everyone to comply with the regulations governing this year's Hajj season and to cooperate with relevant authorities to ensure the security and safety of the guests of Allah. Violating these instructions could result in legal consequences.

Saudi Arabia Issues Urgent Warning on Hajj and Umrah Visa Restrictions

Comments