Riyadh, April 14 -- The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Tourism has instructed all hospitality facilities in Makkah to refuse accommodation to visitors without a Haj permit or an entry permit for work or residence during the Haj season.

This directive will take effect from Dhul Qadah 1, 1446 (April 29) and remain in place until the end of the Haj season.

The announcement follows a statement by the Ministry of Interior (MoI), which confirmed that from Tuesday, April 29, individuals with any visa other than a Haj visa will not be allowed to enter or stay in Makkah. These measures aim to ensure a safe and secure Haj for all pilgrims.

The ministry emphasised that hotels and other hospitality facilities must not host anyone in violati...