Saudi Arabia Makes Major Announcement on Umrah Visa

 

    Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced a change in the expiration date for Umrah visas for foreign pilgrims. The new expiry date is now Dhul Qadah 15, which is two weeks earlier than the previous expiry date of Dhul Qadah 29. This means that foreign pilgrims must leave Saudi Arabia by Dhul Qadah 15.

   The decision is part of the government’s efforts to ensure smooth and efficient management of pilgrims traveling to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, especially with the upcoming Hajj season approaching.

   The ministry also provided clarification about the validity of the three-month Umrah visa. The visa’s validity will now start from the date of issuance, as opposed to the previous policy where it began from the date of entry into the country.

   This clarification was made in response to several inquiries received through the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter). The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah coordinated with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to set the new expiration date.

    The new expiration date of Dhul Qadah 15 was chosen to help maintain order and manage the influx of pilgrims. This adjustment is intended to help streamline the flow of people in and out of the country and support the organization of the annual pilgrimage of Hajj.

    The Ministry’s decision aims to ensure a better experience for all pilgrims and help maintain a smooth and safe pilgrimage for everyone involved.