Hajj permit must be obtained through official process only, says Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has urged aspiring pilgrims to obtain their Hajj permits through official and legal channels only.

The ministry said the permit system is designed to ensure smooth arrangements and better services for worshippers, adding that possession of an approved authorisation is compulsory for all participants.

It said a special Hajj visa is required for those travelling from Bangladesh or any other country, adding that the journey cannot be undertaken on any other type of visa.

Under Saudi regulations, foreign pilgrims must hold both a Hajj visa and a Hajj permit, while citizens and residents of the kingdom are also required to obtain permits before undertaking the pilgrimage.

The Saudi government’s “Nusuk” platform is used for booking Hajj services, after which applications for permits can be submitted as part of pre-registration.

In Bangladesh, authorised Hajj agencies usually handle the permit process for Muslim devotees travelling through private arrangements.

The ministry has also warned that individuals using unauthorised channels or fake permits may face legal punishment.