Previously, the Saudi Fatwa Council had prohibited the performance of Hajj without a permit to ensure the safety and security of pilgrims.
Prohibition of Hajj Without Permit
As the Hajj season approaches in Saudi Arabia, the Kingdom has announced that from today, entry to Makkah with any type of visit visa will be prohibited.
The Ministry of Interior released this advisory, applicable from Thursday, May 23 to Friday, June 21. These dates align with the 15th of Dhu al-Qadah and the 15th of Dhul Hijjah in the Hijri calendar.
Permit requirement for Hajj
To perform hajj in Makkah, individuals must have a valid hajj permit. Other types of visit visas are not accepted as a substitute for the Hajj permit during this period.
The Saudi Fatwa Council had earlier issued a ban on performing Hajj without a permit, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the safety and security of pilgrims. Since May 4, Saudi residents have also been required to present permits to enter Makkah.
Authorities have advised visitors not to travel to Makkah or stay there without a Hajj permit during this time. Violators will face strict consequences.
Pilgrims have also been advised to carry their identification cards at all times throughout the Hajj period, as part of a mandatory advisory issued earlier.
The Saudi government has already begun implementing security and organizational plans to ensure the safety of the guests of Allah as they perform their rituals. The goal is to maintain a secure environment for all pilgrims.
This new regulation is part of Saudi Arabia's broader efforts to manage the Hajj pilgrimage more efficiently and safely. The Hajj pilgrimage is one of the largest annual gatherings in the world, and ensuring the safety of millions of pilgrims is a top priority for the Kingdom. The requirement for a Hajj permit is a measure aimed at preventing overcrowding and ensuring that all pilgrims can perform their religious duties with the necessary support and security.
The Ministry of Interior's announcement is a continuation of the efforts to regulate the influx of people into Makkah during the Hajj season. By limiting entry to those with Hajj permits, the authorities can better control the number of pilgrims and ensure that all necessary preparations are in place to accommodate them.
The advisory also serves as a reminder to both residents and visitors of the importance of adhering to the regulations during this sacred period. The enforcement of these rules is crucial for the overall management and success of the Hajj pilgrimage.
Moreover, the announcement by Saudi Arabia highlights the Kingdom's commitment to the safety and security of Hajj pilgrims. The prohibition of entry to Makkah with visit visas during the specified period, along with the requirement for Hajj permits, is aimed at ensuring a safe and organized pilgrimage. The Saudi authorities have taken extensive measures to prepare for the Hajj season, and compliance with these regulations is essential for the well-being of all participants.
