The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has officially closed the access to Umrah for the year until preparations are made for the Hajj season in 2026. Nowadays, access in the city of Makkah and to the holy places is being strictly controlled to ensure the smooth reception of millions of pilgrims who come every year from various countries.
While this is obvious for all those who are planning to make a late night trek to Umrah, it is those who must be aware of the fact that all those who are not officially permitted as Hajj pilgrims can no longer enter Makkah. Unauthorized travellers face substantial penalties, deportation and ban from return to the Kingdom.
Official Umrah Deadlines You Already Missed
For the past weeks, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Islamic Pilgrimage carried out a time-sequence isolation of the holy cities following a planned schedule to aid in the clean-up process prior to the start of the pilgrimage period.
As mentioned, the issuance of new visas for Umrah continues to be suspended on March 19th, 2026. They closed the final entry period for Umrah pilgrims around April 2nd and April 3rd. At this time, all pilgrims who had made their intention to make Umrah had to leave their stay in Mecca and leave Saudi Arabia by April 18.
Why Tourist Visas Will Not Work Right Now?
However, many travelers take this up as an assumption that performing Umrah during the season of the Hajj is a right of the holder of a Saudi tourist eVisa or a family visit visa. Saudi authorities have stated that this is totally forbidden at this specific time of year, during the restricted time of the Hajj.
Now, the security checkpoints around Makkah are equipped with a strict verification platform using digital systems linked to the Nusuk platform. People who do not have a valid Hajj permit are being denied access on the spot.
Officials are also keeping a check on the transport vehicles, hotels and people staying in them for spotting illegal pilgrims going into holy sites.
Penalties for Violating Hajj Entry Rules
Saudi Arabia has placed harsh punishments on those who try to evade the restrictions set for the Hajj. Penalties for those found entering Makkah without permission range from SAR 10,000 to SAR 20,000.
Authorities can also subject the individual to deportation as well as re-entry restrictions for up to 10 years. The clampdown is also targeting those transport and accommodation operators that enable illegal pilgrims.
Those helping with illegal entry attempts may be liable for fines of up to SAR 100,000, imprisonment and license suspension.
When Will Umrah Reopen Again?
The restrictions in place are temporary and which directly relate with the crowd management operations in relation to Hajj. The Government of the State of Riyadh has adapted the official Hajj rituals between 25th and 30th of May 2026.
After the completion of Hajj and resetting the holy sites, Saudi Arabia anticipates resuming Umrah from June 10th or June 11th 2026 (15 Dhul Hijjah 1447 AH.Following the end of the Hajj, Saudi Arabia is looking forward to the resumption of Umrah on June 10th or June 11th, 2026 (to be followed by 15 Dhul Hijjah 1447 AH.).
Pilgrims planning to take a trip in the coming months may find that July – September is the ideal time to travel with less congestion and hotel rates, travel experts say.
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Why Post-Hajj Umrah Could Be Better for Travelers?
Often pilgrims after Hajj would have a more relaxed and serene spiritual journey in the immediate aftermath of Hajj than during the peak season around Ramadan. Once big Hajj groups leave, hotels in Makkah and Madinah offer discounts on their prices.
Additionally, transportation systems are decongested and transportation is made easier between prayer places for families and aged transport.
The Ministry expects travel agencies to start accepting package bookings soon after its official resumption of issuing Umrah visas next month.
FAQs
Do they still allow Umrah in Saudi Arabia now?
No. Saudi Arabia has temporarily closed access to Umrah, as part of preparations for Hajj 2026. Currently only those with an approved Hajj pass are allowed to enter Makkah.
Is there any chance to do Umrah now with a tourist visa?
No. Visitors on tourist visas are not allowed to enter Makkah during the period of the Hajj. Unauthorized entry could lead to fines and deportation.
What is the penalty for those who come to Makkah without any permit?
Fines (SAR 10,000 to 20,000), deportation and 10-year ban on entry to Saudi Arabia are penalties that may be imposed for violations.
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