Saudi authorities will impose restrictions on entry into Mecca to regulate access during the Hajj season. Starting April 23, individuals must present a Hajj permit, a residency ID issued by Mecca, or a valid work permit for entry. Visitors holding visas will not gain access unless they have a Hajj visa, prompting a departure before April 29 for those without.
The U.S. Consulate General in Jeddah emphasized the necessity for U.S. citizens traveling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj to secure a Hajj visa through the Nusuk platform. Authorities have warned that entry attempts without the requisite permit or visa could lead to denial of entry, deportation, or legal consequences.
The issuance of Umrah permits on the Nusuk platform has been suspended, and April 13 marked the final day for Umrah visa holders to enter Saudi Arabia. Those holding Umrah visas must leave Mecca by April 29. Restrictions will extend until June 10, 2025.
A message from the Saudi Ministry of Interior is available at: https://x.com/MOISaudiArabia/status/1911130993756430466?t=OlH00drPGHppNHsPBrmLcA&s=08
The Consulate advises U.S. citizens to register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for updates on travel and security. Events regarded as unusual or suspicious should be reported to local authorities at 999 or 911 for police and 997 for ambulance services. More information, including emergency contacts, is accessible via the U.S. Embassy website at sa.usembassy.gov.
For those needing assistance, contact can be made with the U.S. Embassy in Riyadh or the U.S. Consulates in Jeddah and Dhahran at the provided contact points.