Saudi Arabia eases Makkah entry permits for six categories during Hajj season
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Saudi passport authorities have introduced an electronic system allowing six eligible groups, along with expatriate workers, to obtain entry permits to Makkah through the Absher Individuals platform during the Hajj season.
The categories include Premium Residency holders, investors, citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council countries, non-Saudi mothers of Saudi citizens, non-Saudi family members and domestic workers. Applicants can complete the process through a series of steps on the platform without visiting passport offices.
The move comes as authorities enforce restrictions on entry to Makkah and the holy sites during the 2026 Hajj season. Security forces began implementing the rules on Dhul Qada 1, corresponding to April 19, barring residents without valid permits from entering.
Officials said access is limited to those with permits issued for work in Makkah, residency permits issued in the city or valid Hajj permits.
Public Security said earlier that permits for expatriate workers are issued electronically through the Absher Individuals and Muqeem portals, linked to the unified Hajj permit platform, Tasreeh.
The General Directorate of Passports confirmed that applications for entry permits are being accepted online, removing the need for in-person visits to passport offices.