Hajj pilgrims can travel within Saudi Arabia without a passport
Here’s how
If someone you know is travelling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj, read on to find out how Hajj pilgrims can travel within Saudi Arabia without a passport. It has just been revealed that the General Directorate of Passports has made it possible for the Hajj pilgrims to obtain a digital visitor ID to travel anywhere within Saudi Arabia.
The directorate said that the Hajj pilgrims can register on the Ministry of Interior’s Absher platform to obtain a digital visitor ID, making it easier for them to travel within the Kingdom. Once issued, the ID will serve as an official document. There will then be no need for carrying a paper passport, according to the Saudi Gazette
Hajj pilgrims can travel within Saudi Arabia without a passport
Officials emphasised that the system will help reduce the burden of carrying physical documents while ensuring secure identification.
“The digital visitor ID allows pilgrims to move around easily and safely during their stay in the kingdom,” the directorate said, noting that it fully replaces the need for a paper passport within Saudi Arabia.
Hajj 2026: The penalties
At the same time, authorities have issued a stern warning against violating Hajj regulations, announcing penalties of up to SR20,000, deportation, and a 10-year re-entry ban. The Ministry of Interior said the rules will be enforced from Dhu Al Qi’dah 1 (April 18) until Dhu Al Hijjah 14 (May 31).
More about Hajj
Meanwhile, for local pilgrims, Hajj leave rules have been announced. The ministry stated that eligible workers can take between 10 and 15 days of paid leave, including the Eid Al Adha holiday, provided they have completed at least two consecutive years of service with their employer. The Hajj leave rules also added that Hajj leave may be granted only once during an employee’s period of employment and only if they have not previously performed the pilgrimage. Although the ministry has also said that employers retain the right to determine how many staff may be granted leave each year, based on operational requirements.
