Saudi Arabia launches one-year multiple-entry Umrah visa for pilgrims

Saudi Arabia launches one-year multiple-entry Umrah visa for pilgrims
Saudi Arabia launches one-year multiple-entry Umrah visa for pilgrims - Muslims arrive at the Grand Mosque in the holy city of Makkah, Saudi Arabia, on May 31, 2025, ahead of the annual Hajj pilgrimage. (Photo: X/Geo English)
Muslims arrive at the Grand Mosque in the holy city of Makkah, Saudi Arabia, on May 31, 2025, ahead of the annual Hajj pilgrimage. (Photo: X/Geo English)

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The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah said the visa will remain valid for 365 days from the date it is issued.

Saudi Arabia has introduced a new multiple-entry Umrah visa that will allow pilgrims to travel to the Kingdom several times over one year, marking a significant change in how worshippers can plan their religious journeys.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah said the visa will remain valid for 365 days from the date it is issued. During that period, holders will be permitted to make multiple visits to perform Umrah, provided their total time spent in the Kingdom does not exceed 90 days.
According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the initiative forms part of the country's Vision 2030 strategy and the Pilgrim Experience Programme, which aims to simplify travel procedures, improve services for worshippers and enhance the overall pilgrimage experience.

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To qualify for the visa, pilgrims must purchase an Umrah package through an authorised service provider listed on the Kingdom's Nusuk Umrah platform before each trip.
The online portal brings together a range of services, including visa applications, accommodation, transport arrangements and flight bookings.
Authorities said the length of the selected package must not exceed the number of days remaining on the visa. Travellers are also required to obtain an Umrah permit through the Nusuk platform before entering Saudi Arabia.

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The ministry said the new arrangement offers greater flexibility for pilgrims while strengthening the integration of digital services throughout every stage of their journey, from planning and booking to arrival and worship.
Once a pilgrim leaves Saudi Arabia after completing Umrah, the visa becomes inactive. It can, however, be reactivated for a future visit once the traveller has fulfilled all the applicable requirements.
The visa will not be operational during the annual Hajj season.
It will not be valid for travel between the first day of Dhu Al-Qi'dah and the 13th day of Dhu Al-Hijjah, the period set aside for Hajj, which is expected to fall between April 8 and May 19 in 2027.
Saudi authorities said the revised visa system is intended to make it easier for pilgrims to organise their visits while expanding the use of digital technology to streamline the Umrah process.
Umrah, one of Islam's most significant acts of worship, may be performed at any time of the year, unlike Hajj, which takes place on fixed dates. Millions of Muslims undertake the pilgrimage to deepen their faith, seek spiritual renewal and ask Allah for forgiveness.

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