Saudis, GCC citizens and residents can perform Umrah without Hajj permit until May 3
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Saudi authorities have allowed citizens, expatriates and GCC nationals to continue performing Umrah until Dhul Qada 15, corresponding to May 3, without requiring a Hajj permit to enter Makkah.
The exemption applies to those already in the Kingdom, enabling them to complete Umrah rituals in the final days before the Hajj season intensifies.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah had earlier set Dhul Qada 1, corresponding to April 19, as the deadline for pilgrims on Umrah visas to leave the country. The date coincided with the start of Hajj preparations, as pilgrims from abroad began arriving in Makkah and Madinah.
In recent days, large numbers of domestic pilgrims have gathered at the Grand Mosque to take advantage of the remaining period for Umrah.
Hotels near the mosque have reported high occupancy, with visitors travelling from across Saudi Arabia, particularly over the weekend.