Key Takeaways
- Makkah entry permits can now be applied for online through the Absher Individuals platform and the Muqeem portal — no in-person visits required.
- Absher handles permits for GCC citizens, premium residency holders, investors, mothers of Saudi citizens, domestic workers, and non-Saudi family members.
- Muqeem processes applications for employees working in Makkah-based establishments or contracted for Hajj season work.
Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Passports has launched an electronic system for Makkah entry permits ahead of Hajj 2026, enabling residents and workers to apply online through two official platforms — Absher and Muqeem — as part of tightened access controls to the Holy City.
The system eliminates the need for in-person visits to passport offices, with applications processed digitally and integrated with the Makkah Entry Permit service for streamlined approvals.
Who Applies Through Which Platform
Absher Individuals handles entry permit applications for:
- GCC citizens
- Premium residency holders
- Investors
- Mothers of Saudi citizens
- Domestic workers
- Non-Saudi family members
Muqeem processes applications for employees working in Makkah-based establishments or those contracted to work in Makkah during the Hajj season.
Seasonal worker permits are issued electronically through Muqeem in integration with Tasreeh — the unified digital system for Hajj permits.
Restrictions Already in Force
The Public Security Directorate confirmed that entry restrictions into Makkah came into force on Monday, April 13, 2026.
Expatriates without a valid Makkah work permit for the holy sites, a Makkah-issued residency permit, or a Hajj permit are not permitted to enter the Holy City.
The online permit system provides the official route for those eligible to obtain the necessary authorisation ahead of Hajj 2026.
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