Saudi Arabia has announced that Saudi citizens and residents of Gulf Cooperation Council member states will be allowed to continue performing Umrah in Makkah without requiring a Hajj permit until May 3, as the Kingdom gradually shifts into the official Hajj season. The move is intended to facilitate smoother access for worshippers wishing to complete Umrah before stricter pilgrimage regulations are fully implemented.
Authorities said the temporary arrangement is part of preparations for the upcoming Hajj period, during which entry procedures and permit requirements are typically tightened to manage the large number of pilgrims arriving from around the world. The decision is expected to benefit many local and regional visitors seeking to perform Umrah in the final days before the full Hajj operational plan comes into effect in Makkah.
