Saudi Arabia has clarified that a Hajj visa is the only visa allowing pilgrims to perform the holy rituals of Hajj in 2024.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah emphasized that this visa strictly permits travel within the cities of Jeddah, Medina, and Mecca.
The authorities have also highlighted that the Hajj visa is not valid for work, residency, or travel outside these areas, with violations potentially leading to a ban on future Hajj participation and deportation.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has also clarified that all international visitors, except those from GCC countries that require a Hajj permit, must obtain a Hajj visa to perform the annual pilgrimage which would start next month.
There is also a digital version of the card – available on Saudi apps Nusuk and Tawakklana – and the pilgrims must display the card to get access to the holy places and move in and around the kingdom.
As far as the process for getting the card is concerned, it would be given to overseas pilgrims by respective Hajj offices after the issuance of pilgrimage visas. On the other hand, the domestic pilgrims will receive it from the service providers after Hajj permits are issued.
To facilitate the process, the official website of the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah now offers electronic registration for the Hajj visa through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ visa platform. Applicants must register by the 7th of Dhu Al Hijjah or until the quota of pilgrims is reached.
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