Saudi Bans Residents Entering Makkah without Hajj Permit
From Monday, residents without entry permits will be turned away from security control points on roads leading to Makkah, according to a report by the Saudi Gazette.
The move is part of the General Directorate of Public Security efforts to regulate entry into the Holy Capital as the Hajj season approaches.
Residents must obtain a permit from the competent authorities in order to enter Makkah.
According to the Public Security, vehicles and expat residents will be turned back to their point of origin, with exceptions only for those who work in the holy sites and have entry permits, those holding a resident’s identity card issued in the holy capital, or those with an Umrah or Hajj permit.
The measures aim to ensure the safety and security of all those participating in the Hajj season.
Hajj 2023: Entry permits needed for Makkah
Meanwhile, the General Directorate of Passports has begun accepting applications for entry permits to Makkah electronically.
The service is available for domestic workers, non-Saudi family members, workers residing in establishments based in Makkah, seasonal work visa holders, and contractors with those establishments registered in the ‘Ajeer’ system for the Hajj season 1444 AH.
The service is accessible through the electronic “Muqeem” portal for all agencies, while permits for domestic workers and non-Saudi family members can be obtained through the ‘Absher Individuals’ platform.
The new measures and electronic services aim to facilitate procedures for beneficiaries, shorten processing times, and save effort for those participating in the Hajj season.
As the Hajj season approaches, the General Directorate of Public Security and the General Directorate of Passports will continue to monitor the situation closely and take any necessary measures to ensure the safety and security of all those participating in the annual pilgrimage.
Source:- The Arabian Business
By: Gurmeet Singh
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