With the Hajj season approaching, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Emigration in Egypt has announced new regulations on Wednesday 23 April governing entry to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, specifically targeting Egyptian citizens. This decision is part of a broader effort to enhance preparedness for the 2025 Hajj, which is expected to draw millions of pilgrims to Mecca. Starting 23 April, 2025, entry to Mecca will be prohibited for all individuals except for a select few categories, including those with official Hajj permits, residents with permits issued specifically for Mecca, and workers in the region holding special permits. This measure is designed to streamline the pilgrimage process and ensure that only those authorized can access the holy city during this high-traffic period. Moreover, holders of Umrah visas will face restrictions as well; they will be barred from entering the Kingdom from any port or airport starting 13 April, 2025. Those who have already entered Saudi Arabia on these visas must leave Mecca and exit the Kingdom by 29 April, 2025. Family visit visa holders will still be allowed entry, though they too are restricted from entering Mecca during the…
New Regulations for Entry to Saudi Arabia Ahead of Hajj 2025
April 24, 2025
By Belal Nawar
Senior Journalist
