Saudi Arabia shares new update for pilgrims ahead of Hajj 2024; details inside

RIYADH – Millions of pilgrims started arriving in Saudi Arabia for Hajj 2024, with more than 20 lac people expected to attend this year’s pilgrimage, and Kingdom is making all out efforts to handle world largest gathering.

With less than 3 weeks remaining in Hajj 2024, Saudi Ministry of Interior shared new update, restricting people holding visas from entering Mecca during Hajj.

Under the new order, visit visa holders will not be allowed to travel to Mecca from May 23 to June 21, Saudi Press Agency reported.

As per the latest update, Saudi residents and foreigners would need special permits for Hajj to enter Mecca and perform Hajj.

Umrah permits are currently not being issued by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah through the Nusuk app. Saudi authorities further cautioned that violating these rules will result in punishments and heavy fines.

Those found in Makkah and the holy sites without a Haj permit, including citizens, residents, and visitors, will face a fine of 10,000 SAR. It said repeat offenders will incur double the fine, and resident violators may be deported and banned from re-entering the country.

The special Hajj permit is required for access to central Haram area, the holy sites of Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah, and other sites.

Hajj 2024

The upcoming Hajj season in Saudi Arabia is expected to be one of the largest ever, with millions of Muslims from around the world preparing to undertake the pilgrimage.

Saudi authorities are warning of extreme heat, with temperatures reaching 44 degrees Celsius. To facilitate the pilgrimage, the government has deployed thousands of buses and trains and increased health workers to prevent heat-related illnesses.

This year’s Hajj will be the largest since the requirement for women to be accompanied by male guardians was lifted in 2021. Additionally, there is no maximum age limit, allowing elderly pilgrims to participate. The pilgrimage will take place from June 14-19, with preparations underway for potentially record-breaking attendance.