Saudi Arabia introduces new umrah visa for repeat visits

Saudi Arabia has launched a new umrah visa, offering pilgrims a full year of validity from the date of issuance and permitting multiple entries into the Kingdom. This initiative allows visitors to stay for a cumulative total of 90 days throughout the visa's validity period.

The new visa is part of Saudi Arabia's comprehensive efforts under the Saudi Vision 2030 and the Pilgrim Experience Program, designed to streamline travel, enhance visitor experiences, and improve service efficiency for pilgrims.

Under the new framework, pilgrims are required to purchase approved service packages through the Nusuk platform for each visit. The duration of these packages cannot exceed the remaining validity of the visa. Additionally, visitors must obtain an umrah permit via the Nusuk application before arriving in the country.

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah stated that the visa automatically deactivates upon a pilgrim's departure from Saudi Arabia and reactivates upon meeting regulatory requirements for subsequent visits. However, the visa will not be active during the annual Hajj season, from the 1st of Zulkaedah to the 13th of Zulhijah, in accordance with Hajj regulations. This new visa is expected to boost religious tourism and solidify Saudi Arabia's position as a year-round Islamic tourism destination.