Ministry of Tourism Bans Accommodation for Non-Hajj Visa Holders
In preparation for Hajj 2025, the Saudi Ministry of Tourism has officially banned accommodation for non-Hajj visa holders in Makkah from April 29 until the end of the Hajj season. Travel agencies, hotels, and online booking platforms are instructed not to allow bookings or check-ins for any tourist or visit visa holders unless they hold a valid Hajj visa or have official work or residency permits in Makkah during this period.
Strict Entry Measures to Ensure Safety and Organization
This decision supports the Ministry of Interior’s directive requiring all individuals without a valid Hajj permit to leave Makkah starting from Dhu Al-Qi'dah 1 (April 29). The regulation is aimed at enhancing safety, controlling crowd flow, and providing optimal services to authorized pilgrims.
Who Is Affected by the Ban?
- Visitors holding tourist visas
- Holders of family visit visas
- Expatriates on resident visas outside Makkah without an official work permit for Hajj season
Only individuals with:
- A valid Hajj visa
- An official permit to work or reside in Makkah during Hajj
will be allowed to stay in Makkah during this period.
Legal Penalties for Non-Compliance
The Ministry has warned that failure to comply with these regulations will result in legal penalties for both establishments and individuals. All booking platforms and hospitality service providers must enforce these rules strictly. The Ministry emphasized the importance of full cooperation to ensure a safe and organized Hajj season.
Compliance Required from All Accommodation Platforms
Both local hotels and global online booking platforms must block reservations from non-eligible visa holders during this restricted period. The ministry will conduct inspections and apply fines or sanctions against violators.
