Big news if you were planning an Umrah trip in the next few weeks Saudi Arabia is hitting pause on Umrah for GCC citizens and others as the Kingdom rolls up its sleeves to prepare for Hajj 2025.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announced that starting April 29, 2025 (1 Dhul-Qa’dah 1446 AH), Umrah permits through the Nusuk platform will no longer be issued for Saudi citizens, residents, GCC nationals, and anyone inside the Kingdom on other visa types.
This temporary suspension will stay in place until June 10, 2025 (14 Dhul-Hijjah 1446 AH, right after the Hajj season wraps up.
Why the Pause on Umrah?
Simply put: Hajj 2025 is going to be massive.
We’re talking millions of pilgrims descending on Mecca, Medina, and surrounding holy sites. To pull off something of this scale (and make sure it’s smooth, safe, and spiritually fulfilling), Saudi authorities are adjusting the number of visitors beforehand.
For now, only Hajj workers, Mecca residents, and people holding valid Hajj permits can enter Mecca. If you don’t have one, it’s best to postpone your plans, entry without a Hajj visa after April 29 could land you in some serious legal trouble.
Starting even earlier, from April 23, anyone wanting to access Mecca needs an official permit issued through the Absher or Muqeem platforms.
The goal? Crowd control, safety, and ensuring that everything — from transportation to health services, runs like clockwork when the Hajj rush begins.
What to Expect for Hajj 2025
This year’s Hajj is expected to officially begin around June 6, 2025, depending on the moon sighting. Saudi Arabia is leaving no stone unturned to ensure the experience is smooth and accessible for pilgrims from over 50 countries.
Six official Hajj packages are being offered, catering to every type of traveler from budget-conscious pilgrims to those seeking a luxury spiritual journey:
- Standard: 14 days in 3-star hotels or residential buildings, plus camp access.
- Standard Shifting: Budget option with accommodations shifting between 3- and 4-star hotels.
- Premium: 10 days in 4-star hotels with structured access to key sites.
- Premium Shifting: 14 days balancing comfort and flexibility.
- Luxury: 10-day Hajj in 5-star hotels, focusing on ease and exclusivity.
- Luxury Shifting: A flexible 14-day plan for those wanting top-tier experiences.
Whether you’re seeking a simple stay or a five-star spiritual retreat, there’s something thoughtfully curated for everyone.
Behind the Scenes: How Saudi Arabia Is Prepping
Beyond packages and permits, a massive operational rollout is underway before Hajj 2025.
- The Ajeer platform is streamlining temporary work permits for seasonal employment during Hajj, ensuring extra manpower where needed, from crowd management to medical assistance.
- Hajj and Umrah work visas are being fast-tracked for businesses involved in pilgrimage operations.
- Social support services are expanding too, with family counselling stations, children’s hospitality centres, and professional social workers posted across the holy sites.
On top of that, volunteers will be playing a huge role this year, welcoming pilgrims at border entry points, offering assistance to the elderly and people with disabilities, and even helping distribute food and water within the Grand Mosque areas.
The message is clear: 2025’s Hajj isn’t just about logistics, it’s about care, community, and creating an unforgettable spiritual journey.
Also Read: How to Stay Safe from Fake Hajj Visas
If You’re Planning to Perform Umrah:
If Umrah was on your mind for the next couple of months, it’s a good idea to reconsider your travel dates. Save that energy for later in the year, or better yet, plan ahead for Umrah post-Hajj when things settle down and Mecca opens its doors again for pilgrims from across the world.
And if you’re one of the lucky ones with a Hajj permit? Buckle up; you’re about to be part of one of the largest, most beautifully orchestrated spiritual events on the planet.
Last Reviewed: 27 April 2025
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