Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced key amendments to the Umrah visa system, reducing the pre-entry validity period from three months to one month. The new rule, which takes effect next week, aims to improve crowd management as the Kingdom anticipates a significant rise in pilgrim arrivals following the end of summer.
New visa rules and automatic cancellation
According to Al Arabiya, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has implemented changes to the Umrah visa regulations to streamline the arrival process. Under the new policy, Umrah visas will now be automatically canceled 30 days after issuance if the pilgrim has not entered Saudi Arabia within that timeframe.Previously, pilgrims had up to three months from the date of visa issuance to travel to the Kingdom. The revised policy now limits that pre-entry window to one month, tightening the timeframe for pilgrims to schedule their visits. However, once pilgrims enter Saudi Arabia, the duration of stay remains unchanged at three months, ensuring visitors still have ample time to complete their pilgrimage and other religious activities.The ministry confirmed that these updated rules will come into effect next week.
Aim: Efficient crowd management and improved pilgrim experience
Explaining the reasoning behind the changes, Ahmed Bajaeifer, adviser to the National Committee for Umrah and Visit, told Al Arabiya that the adjustment aligns with the ministry’s broader preparations for an expected surge in Umrah pilgrims. The increase is anticipated as temperatures drop in Mecca and Medina, marking the end of the summer season, a period traditionally followed by a sharp rise in pilgrimage activity.Bajaeifer emphasized that the goal is to enable authorities to better organize and manage the growing number of visitors, prevent overcrowding in the two holy cities, and maintain a smooth and safe experience for all pilgrims.
Record numbers in the current Umrah season
Since the start of the new Umrah season in early June, Saudi Arabia has already issued more than four million Umrah visas to international pilgrims. This marks a record-breaking turnout compared to previous seasons, with this year’s figures surpassing expectations within just five months of the season’s launch.Officials say the new measures are part of ongoing efforts to ensure that the expanding number of pilgrims can be accommodated safely and efficiently, while also maintaining the high quality of services provided in Mecca and Medina.
