From today, Sunday (April 13), no one will be allowed to enter Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah. The country is beginning preparations for the upcoming Hajj. This restriction will remain in place until the Hajj season concludes. Saudi authorities had previously announced that the border would be closed to Umrah pilgrims starting from 15 Shawwal, which coincides with April 13.
The country’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah confirmed that Sunday is the last day foreign pilgrims can enter for Umrah. After this, anyone wishing to perform Umrah must wait until the Hajj season is over.
Meanwhile, the Saudi Ministry of Interior issued a warning that any Hajj or Umrah agency failing to submit reports confirming the return of Umrah pilgrims with expired visas will face a minimum fine of 100,000 riyals. Depending on the situation, the penalty could increase significantly.
Additionally, the Hajj Ministry has set April 29 as the final return date for Umrah pilgrims. Staying beyond this deadline will be considered a legal violation and subject to punishment under Saudi law.
The ministry has strictly warned that any delay in returning after the specified date will be regarded as a breach of the law.