Ramadan 2026: Non-Saudis Must Get Sponsor Approval Itikaf at Masjid al Haram and Nabawi

January 25, 2026 adminsr

Formal mosque registration is compulsory for anyone performing I’tikaf.
Non-Saudi residents must secure documented approval from their official sponsor first.
The rules apply to all mosques, including the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque.

Saudi authorities have mandated that non-Saudi residents must obtain formal approval from their official sponsor (Kafeel) to perform Itikaf (spiritual seclusion) in mosques during Ramadan 1447 AH (2026).

The directive is part of new rules requiring all individuals—Saudi and non-Saudi—to register with mosque administration to observe the practice.

The regulation stipulates that expatriates must present documented consent from their sponsor, in accordance with residency (Iqama) laws, before their mosque registration can be completed.

All worshippers must have their personal details verified by mosque officials during the registration process.

The Ministry of Islamic Affairs confirmed the rule applies uniformly to all mosques across the Kingdom.

This includes the Grand Mosque (Masjid al-Haram) in Makkah and the Prophet’s Mosque (Masjid an-Nabawi) in Madinah, which traditionally see the highest number of participants during the final ten nights of Ramadan.