Saudi authorities impose entry restrictions for visit visa holders

MAKKAH: With less than three weeks remaining till Haj, the Saudi Ministry of Interior has introduced new restrictions.

According to a report from local news outlets, people holding visit visas will not be permitted to enter Makkah from May 23 till June 21.

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Saudi residents and foreigners are required to carry special permits to be able to perform Haj and access Makkah, as Umrah permits are currently not being issued.

Saudi authorities have warned of strict enforcement, including heavy fines and possible deportation for violators.

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Those found without a Haj permit in Makkah and the holy sites face fines of 10,000 SAR, with repeat offenders facing double fines and the potential for deportation for resident violators.