Saudi Arabia has introduced important changes to the Umrah visa system, and anyone planning their journey soon needs to understand how these updates work. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah confirmed that the Umrah entry visa will now remain valid for only one month from the date it is issued. Once a pilgrim enters the Kingdom, the stay duration remains three months, exactly as before.
This update is especially important for travelers from Pakistan and other countries where Umrah travel increases significantly during the winter season.
The New One Month Validity Rule Explained
Under the updated policy, pilgrims must enter Saudi Arabia within thirty days of visa issuance. If they do not enter within that time, the visa is automatically cancelled in the system.
Why This Change Matters
Saudi authorities are preparing for a major rise in international pilgrims. This step will help manage visitor flow at Jeddah and Madinah airports, reduce delays, and prevent congestion in Makkah and Madinah during busy months. Officials shared that the ministry expects an even larger number of visitors due to cooler weather and extended holiday periods.
Also Read
21 Days Umrah Packages
Growing Number of Pilgrims This Season
Reports from Saudi Gazette confirm that more than four million Umrah visas have been issued since June. This marks one of the highest numbers recorded in such a short period. With winter approaching, the number is expected to rise further as pilgrims from Pakistan, India and other regions prefer traveling in the cooler months.
All Visa Types are Now Eligible for Umrah
The Ministry also confirmed that visitors holding any type of Saudi visa can perform Umrah. This includes family visit visas, tourist e visas, personal visas, transit visas and work visas. This update supports the broader goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which focuses on expanding access to religious tourism and simplifying the pilgrimage process.
The Nusuk Umrah Platform
Pilgrims are encouraged to use the Nusuk platform, an official digital system that allows travelers to plan their entire Umrah journey with ease.
What Nusuk Offers
• Electronic permit issuance
• Flexible timing and date selection
• Booking for transportation and hotels
• Pre designed or customizable Umrah packages
• Access to official services inside Makkah and Madinah
This platform is becoming a valuable tool for both experienced and first time pilgrims who want a smooth, organized journey.
Key Points to Remember
• Umrah visa is valid for thirty days before travel
• Stay period inside Saudi Arabia remains three months
• Visa is cancelled automatically if not used within thirty days
• All visa types now allow Umrah
• Nusuk is the recommended platform for the entire planning process
• These changes support Saudi Vision 2030
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new validity period for the Umrah visa?
The Umrah visa is now valid for only one month from the date of issuance before travel but the stay period remains three months once inside Saudi Arabia.
Will the visa be cancelled if I do not travel within thirty days?
Yes the visa is automatically cancelled in the system if the pilgrim does not enter Saudi Arabia within thirty days.
Can I perform Umrah on a tourist or visit visa?
Yes all visa types including tourist visit personal transit and work visas are now eligible for Umrah.
Why did Saudi Arabia change the Umrah visa validity?
The updated rule helps manage the rising number of pilgrims reduce overcrowding and maintain smoother entry at airports and holy sites.
Do I need the Nusuk platform to perform Umrah?
While not mandatory Nusuk makes the process easier by offering electronic permits flexible timings and complete Umrah planning services.
