Saudi Arabia has commenced the issuance of Hajj visas to Muslim pilgrims worldwide for the upcoming annual Hajj season, starting from March 1, as reported by VisaGuide.World. The issuance period will extend until April 29, with this year’s Hajj season scheduled to take place between June 14 and 19.
Authorities in Saudi Arabia have already authorized 1,860 buildings in the Holy City of Mecca to accommodate pilgrims, expecting to host approximately 1.2 million individuals, according to GulfNews. However, Mecca’s deputy governor, Saud bin Meshal, has extended the deadline for landlords to apply for building licenses until May 8, anticipating a rise in the number of licensed buildings to over 5,000.
In preparation for the pilgrimage, Saudi authorities have announced several regulations. Saudi Minister of Hajj, Tawfiq Al Rabiah, revealed that specific areas will no longer be allocated for countries at the Saudi holy sites in the new pilgrimage season, with locations for various countries determined upon finalizing contracts.
Muslim pilgrims are set to begin their arrival on May 9, coinciding with the first day of Dhul Qaidah, the 11th Islamic month.
During last year’s Hajj pilgrimage, approximately two million pilgrims from around the globe participated in the event in and around Mecca, reaching pre-pandemic levels seen in 2019.
It is crucial to note that a Hajj visa is exclusively designated for performing the Hajj pilgrimage and remains valid solely during the Hajj season. It cannot be utilized for work or residency purposes. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah reiterated before last year’s Hajj pilgrimage that performing Hajj with a tourist visa was not permissible.
Saudi nationals and residents seeking to perform Hajj are obligated to obtain a Hajj Permit by applying through the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Additionally, individuals interested in obtaining a Hajj visa must apply through licensed travel agencies recognized by the Saudi authorities, as Hajj visas are not issued to individuals. These visas are issued free of charge at Saudi Arabia’s Embassies or Consulates worldwide.
