Saudi Arabia launches Digital Hajj Permit for resident workers

The General Directorate of Passports has begun accepting electronic applications from resident workers to gain Makkah entry permits during the Hajj season, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Applications can be submitted through the Ministry of Interior’s platforms - Absher and the Muqeem portal - eliminating the need to visit passport offices. This is integrated with the unified service for Hajj permits, the Tasreeh platform, the SPA added.

The Absher Individuals platform enables permit issuance for domestic workers, dependents, Premium Residency holders, investors, mothers of citizens, and GCC nationals, after submitting the required documents.

Through the Muqeem portal, permits are issued to workers in Makkah-based establishments, seasonal work visa holders, and individuals with employment contracts with such establishments during the Hajj season. Starting April 23, residents within the Kingdom must obtain permits to enter Makkah. Residents without permits will be denied entry and returned to their original location, the Ministry of Interior said.

Exemptions apply to residents with a work permit for the holy sites issued by the relevant authority, those holding a resident ID issued by Makkah, or those with valid Hajj permits. The issuance of Umrah permits through the Nusuk platform will be suspended from April 29 to June 10 for citizens, GCC nationals, residents, and holders of other visa types.

Starting April 29, no one will be allowed to enter or remain in Makkah without a Hajj visa, the ministry added.