Kamal Ghorui
As the current annual Umrah season approaches its closing phase, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced the final deadlines for issuing visas, entering the Kingdom, and the permitted stay of pilgrims. The ministry also reminded companies and pilgrims that performing Hajj requires a specific Hajj visa and cannot be done using an Umrah visa. The ministry clarified that the last date for issuing Umrah visas for the ongoing season will be the first of Shawwal. Pilgrims holding Umrah visas will be allowed to enter Saudi Arabia until Shawwal 15, while the final date for their stay in the Kingdom will be the first of Dhul Qada. After this date, Umrah pilgrims are expected to have completed their visits and departed the country. The announcement came during the 17th periodic meeting held by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah with Saudi Umrah companies, which took place virtually on Saturday. During the session, officials highlighted the need for strict compliance with the rules governing the upcoming Hajj season. The ministry reiterated that Hajj rituals must only be performed with a valid Hajj visa, emphasising that Umrah visas cannot be used for the pilgrimage. Speaking during the meeting, Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dr Tawfiq Al-Rabiah praised Umrah companies for their cooperation and efforts during the Ramadan period. He acknowledged their role in serving pilgrims, addressing cases involving stranded Umrah pilgrims, and helping facilitate their return journeys to their home destinations. The minister also stressed the importance of continuing to follow all operational guidelines related to the Umrah season. This includes ensuring staggered arrival schedules for pilgrims at airports and regularly updating pilgrims’ departure information through the Nusk Masar platform, which is used to manage travel and service data for visitors. Dr Al-Rabiah also invited Umrah companies to take part in the third edition of the Umrah and Visit Forum 2026, which aims to bring together industry partners and organisations involved in pilgrimage services. During the meeting, officials reviewed key indicators from the current Umrah season and highlighted the achievements recorded so far. Discussions also covered preparations for the upcoming Umrah and Visit Forum, including its role in strengthening partnerships, exchanging expertise among service providers, and presenting opportunities to improve the services offered to pilgrims and visitors. The meeting forms part of the regular consultations organised by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah with Umrah companies. These sessions are intended to strengthen coordination with sector partners, monitor service development, and ensure that pilgrims receive better support throughout their journey. The initiative also aligns with the broader goals of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which seeks to enhance the overall experience for Umrah pilgrims and visitors travelling to the Kingdom.
