Hajj Season 1444 is just approaching and arrangements by Saudi Authorities are at its full swing. In the holy city of Makkah; authorities are busy ensuring that the pilgrims receive the best possible services and a pleasant, smooth experience during the hajj. As part of the preparations, entry into holy city of Makkah has been restricted and Makkah Entry Permit has been made compulsory for residents to enter Mecca. In this article, we will discuss about How to Enter Makkah During Hajj Season and details about Makkah Entry Permit for iqama holders (residents) in KSA.
Hajj Season 1444: How to Enter Makkah During Hajj Season? All You Need to Know About Makkah Entry Permit for Residents
In normal conditions, people with a valid iqama or visit visa are allowed to freely travel across the kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This includes travelling towards the holy cities of Makkah and Medina as well. However, that’s not the case during the hajj season. During the hajj season, hundreds of thousands of pilgrims from around the world travel towards Makkah. In such a situation; serving and facilitating those pilgrims becomes the top priority for the authorities.
For Hajj Season 1444, the General Directorate of Public Security has announced a requirement of Makkah Entry Permit for residents to be able to enter Makkah. According to the details available, entry permit condition will start from Monday 16th of May 2023. Any resident (iqama holder) without a valid entry permit will not be allowed to enter Makkah.
Who Can Get Makkah Entry Permit During Hajj Season?
Entry Permit for Makkah during hajj season will be issued to residents only if they fulfil certain conditions. It won’t be possible for anyone to just get the permit. Below are some conditions which clarify who can get Makkah Entry Permit during Hajj 1444 season:
- Those who have a valid iqama (resident card) issued in the holy city of Makkah.
- Those who have a valid Hajj, Umrah permit.
- The domestic workers and non-Saudi family members, workers residing in establishments based in the Holy city of Makkah.
- The seasonal work visa holders and contractors with those establishments registered in the “Ajeer” system, for the Hajj season 1444.
How to Get Makkah Entry Permit During Hajj Season?
For those who fulfil the above conditions, can get Entry permit for Makkah electronically. Absher platform provides plenty of useful e-services and permit issuance is also there. Makkah Entry permit can be obtained directly from Absher using your valid Absher Account. If you are working with any company in Makkah, you may contact your employer to assist you in getting Entry Permit through Absher Platform.
What Will Happen If you Try to Enter Makkah Without Permit During Hajj Season?
Starting from Monday, 16th May no resident is allowed to enter Mecca without a valid permit. If you try to enter the holy city of Makkah without entry permit; you won’t be allowed. You will be diverted back from the city entry points.
Also note that KSA is very strict for implementing its rules and regulations. Violations and trying to enter Makkah illegally to perform haj or for any other reasons is a crime. If you are caught in Makkah performing hajj illegally without hajj tasreeh (permit), you will be subjected to legal consequences. As explained in Saudi Arabia Expat Life: Expat Living in Saudi Arabia, It is always recommended to strongly adhere to the rules and regulations while living in KSA.