Saudi Arabia has announced a major change in its Umrah visa policy, shortening the validity period from three months to one month.
The new rule set to take effect next week is part of the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts to improve crowd management and ensure smoother pilgrimage operations.
According to Saudi media, the visa will now remain valid for only 30 days from the date it is issued. Pilgrims must enter the country within this period, or their visas will automatically be cancelled.
However, once they arrive in Saudi Arabia, visitors will still be allowed to stay for up to three months to complete their pilgrimage and visit holy sites.
Officials from the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah said the updated rule is designed to manage the large number of visitors expected during the cooler months, when Umrah activity peaks.
The decision will help regulate the arrival schedules and reduce congestion in Makkah and Madina, ensuring a safer and more organized experience for all pilgrims.
Ahmed Bajafar, adviser to the National Committee for Umrah and Visit, noted that this change will also support travel agencies and service providers in better planning accommodations and transportation.
Recently, Saudi Arabia has been updating its Umrah procedures to enhance efficiency and transparency. In October, the government made it mandatory for all pilgrims to pre-book their hotels and transport through the Nusuk or Masar platforms before arrival.
The Kingdom has also reaffirmed that visitors holding any valid Saudi visa including tourist, family, or transit visas are welcome to perform Umrah during their stay.
