Millions of Muslims worldwide consider performing Umrah in the Grand Mosque of Makkah a dream journey, but the pilgrimage has often been complicated by visa issues, accommodation arrangements, and transport bookings. Many pilgrims previously depended on travel agents, while some opted to perform Umrah using tourist visas, leading to confusion and delays.
In a major development, Saudi Arabia has introduced a series of changes designed to simplify and regulate the entire process. According to Umrah operators in the UAE, every stage of the pilgrimage — from applying for visas to booking hotels and transport — will now be managed exclusively through official platforms.
The new system is expected to bring greater transparency and organization, ensuring that pilgrims experience a smoother journey with less reliance on intermediaries. Authorities believe the move will help curb misinformation and fraudulent practices that some pilgrims have encountered in the past.
However, this streamlined system also comes with stricter compliance requirements. Pilgrims must now carefully follow the digital procedures and adhere to updated guidelines to secure their bookings and approvals. While the changes promise to make Umrah more efficient, they also call for a higher level of preparedness and awareness among travelers.
With these reforms, Saudi Arabia aims to enhance the spiritual experience of Umrah while maintaining order and fairness in one of the most significant journeys of faith for Muslims worldwide.
