Saudi Arabia reduces validity of Umrah visa to one month

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced new amendments to Umrah visa regulations, reducing the visa’s validity period from three months to one month from the date of issuance.

However, the stay duration for pilgrims after entering the Kingdom will remain unchanged at three months, according to Al Arabiya. The new policy is set to take effect next week.

Visa to be cancelled if unused after 30 days

Under the revised policy, the Umrah visa will be automatically cancelled 30 days after issuance if the pilgrim does not register to enter Saudi Arabia within that timeframe.

Officials say the move aims to streamline visa management and ensure smoother entry procedures for pilgrims.

Managing growing pilgrim numbers

Adviser to the National Committee for Umrah and Visit, Ahmed Bajaeifer, said the decision is part of preparations for an expected increase in Umrah pilgrims, particularly with the onset of cooler weather in Makkah and Madinah.

He said the measure would help prevent overcrowding in the two holy cities.

Record-breaking Umrah season

According to the Saudi Gazette, over four million Umrah visas have been issued to international pilgrims since the start of the new Umrah season in early June — marking a record high in just five months and surpassing figures from previous years.

All visa categories now eligible for Umrah

Last month, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah confirmed that holders of all visa categories — including personal, family visit, electronic tourist, transit, and work visas — can perform Umrah in the Kingdom.

The initiative, reported by the Saudi Press Agency, is part of broader efforts to simplify pilgrimage procedures and expand access in line with Saudi Vision 2030.

Nusuk Umrah platform

The ministry also promoted the Nusuk Umrah platform, which enables users to book packages, obtain permits electronically, and choose flexible timings.

Authorities said the integrated system is part of ongoing efforts to make Umrah more accessible and convenient for Muslims worldwide.