Just before the Hajj 2026 season begins in Mecca, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has started to issue electronic permits for entry into the holy city. Yes, through these permits, authorities are allowing residents and workers to apply online as part of tighter access controls to Mecca. Here’s all you need to know about the e-permits for the holy city in Saudi Arabia.
E-Permits To Be Issued For Mecca
As revealed by the General Directorate of Passports, applications for entry permits for Mecca can be submitted through the Absher and Muqeem portals. This, as a result, eliminates the need for any in-person visit to the passport officers. It should be noted that the systems are integrated with the Mecca entry permit service in order to streamline approvals, as revealed by the Gulf News.
Permits Can Be Issued Through Absher And Muqeem Portals
With new arrangements, the Absher Individual platform would handle permits for those who happen to be GCC citizens, investors, mothers of Saudi citizens, premium residency holders, non-Saudi family members, and domestic workers. On the other hand, the Muqeem portal would handle processing applications for employees who are working in Mecca establishments or those who contracted work during the Hajj season.
Finally, the Public Security Directorate has also confirmed that the restrictions for entering Mecca without an official permit came into force on Monday, April 13th. So, these rules apply to patriots who do not hold a valid work permit for the holy sites. Basically, expats who do not have entry permits will not be allowed to enter Mecca.
Also Read: Saudi Arabia Life Expectancy Reaches 79.9 Years; Here’s What It Means!
What Is Nusuk Card?
At this point, it’s important to talk about the Nusuk card, which is one non-negotiable document. This is basically a mandatory smart ID that every registered Pilgrim should carry from arrival to departure, which grants access to the holy sites and services supporting one of the largest annual gatherings. This card combines personal, medical, and accommodation data into a single document, and it functions as a physical and digital card. Finally, it’s worth mentioning that it is the sole document which confirms a pilgrim’s ID and legal authorisation for performing Hajj in Saudi Arabia.
So, make sure to have all your documents in order before you set off for the Hajj pilgrimage.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/Eluk rr from Getty Images
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FAQs
What is hajj?
Hajj is an annual pilgrimage performed by able Muslims, which is one of the most important pillars of Islam.