Saudi Arabia's General Directorate of Public Security has announced that, effective from April 23, expatriates will need a permit to enter Makkah.

Exemptions apply to those holding a work permit, a resident ID from the Holy City, or a Hajj permit.

Authorities have warned that violators will be turned back at security checkpoints. Entry permits for residents working during Hajj will be issued electronically through the Tasreeh platform.

The Ministry of Interior also stressed that all visa holders, except those with a Hajj visa, are prohibited from entering or remaining in the city of Makkah starting April 29.