Saudi issues Hajj travel restrictions

Saudi Arabia has introduced new guidelines for the Hajj pilgrims imposing travel restrictions in the country. According to the new guideline, the Hajj pilgrims will only be allowed travel to Jeddah, Medina, and Makkah during the Hajj period with the visas issued for pilgrimage. According to the guideline of the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah of Saudi Arabia, the visa being issued for the Hajj pilgrims will exclusively serve as the entry permit participating in the Hajj rituals in 2024.

The Gulf News, an Arab based newspaper, reports, the ministry emphasized that the Hajj visa is not valid for work, residency or travel outside the designated cities.

The ministry also clarified that all international visitors, except those from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries that require a Hajj permit, must obtain a Hajj visa.