Saudi Arabia Reduces Umrah Visa Validity to One Month | New Rule Takes Effect Next Week
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced significant changes to Umrah visa validity regulations, reducing the pre-entry validity period from three months to just one month from the date of issuance. The new policy, which takes effect next week, represents a major shift in how pilgrims plan their journeys to the holy cities.
What’s Changing
Under the revised regulations, Umrah visas will now be automatically cancelled if pilgrims do not enter Saudi Arabia within 30 days of the visa being issued. Previously, travelers had up to three months to use their visa for entry.
However, the Ministry has confirmed that once pilgrims arrive in the Kingdom, the permitted stay duration remains unchanged at three months, allowing ample time to perform Umrah and visit both Makkah and Madinah.
Key Details at a Glance
| Requirement | Previous Rule | New Rule |
| Visa validity before entry | 90 days | 30 days |
| Maximum stay after arrival | 90 days | 90 days (unchanged) |
| Automatic cancellation | Not applicable | After 30 days if unused |
| Effective date | – | Next week |
Why Saudi Arabia Changes Umrah Visa Duration?
Ahmed Bajaeifer, adviser to the National Committee for Umrah and Visit, explained that the adjustment is designed to address crowd management challenges, particularly during cooler months when pilgrim numbers surge dramatically.
“The measure comes as part of the ministry’s preparations for a significant rise in the number of Umrah pilgrims,” Bajaeifer told Al Arabiya. “The aim is to allow authorities to better manage crowds and prevent overcrowding in the two holy cities.”
The policy aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals of improving religious tourism infrastructure while maintaining safety and service quality for millions of visitors.
Record-Breaking Season
The current Umrah season, which began in June 2025, has already seen more than 4 million visas issued to international pilgrims — a record-breaking pace compared to previous years. Officials anticipate continued growth as temperatures drop and travel demand increases through the winter months.
Additional Requirements for 2025
Beyond the visa validity changes, Saudi authorities have introduced several other important requirements:
Mandatory Pre-Booking
- Hotel accommodation must be confirmed before visa approval
- Transportation must be verified through official platforms
Official Platforms
- Nusuk Masar platform: For Umrah and Rawdah Permit, For Hotel and transport confirmation
Visa Flexibility
The Ministry has clarified that holders of all types of valid visas including tourist, family visit, and transit visas are now eligible to perform Umrah during their stay in the Kingdom.
What Pilgrims Need to Do
To ensure a smooth journey under the new regulations:
Apply strategically — Only submit visa applications when travel dates are confirmed and finalized
Plan carefully — Ensure your flight and arrival are scheduled well within the 30-day validity window
Book in advance — Pre-arrange hotel and transportation through authorized channels
Use official apps — Complete all verifications through the Nusuk App.
Check your visa date — Note the exact issuance date and count forward 30 days for your entry deadline
Avoid delays — Any postponement beyond the 30-day window will require a completely new visa application
Important for Pakistani Pilgrims: While the Nusuk app is globally available, Pakistani citizens must obtain their Umrah visa through licensed travel agencies like KSA Travels before using the app. The visa cannot be applied for directly through Nusuk from Pakistan.
Impact on Travel Planning
For pilgrims booking through travel agencies like KSA Travels, this change requires tighter coordination between visa issuance and travel dates. The shortened validity window means:
- Less flexibility for last-minute changes
- Greater importance of confirmed bookings before visa application
- Need for efficient communication between travel agents and pilgrims
- Importance of understanding the difference between entry validity (30 days) and stay period (90 days)
Expert Advice from KSA Travels
“While the entry window is now tighter, the three-month stay period after arrival remains generous,” notes our travel advisory team. “Pilgrims should view this as an opportunity to plan more purposefully, ensuring all arrangements are confirmed before visa application.”
We recommend discussing your specific travel dates with our consultants to ensure your visa application timing aligns perfectly with your intended journey.
Looking Ahead
These regulatory changes reflect Saudi Arabia’s commitment to managing the unprecedented growth in Umrah pilgrim numbers while maintaining the spiritual experience and safety of all visitors. As the Kingdom continues to develop its religious tourism infrastructure, pilgrims can expect further enhancements to services and facilities in both holy cities.
For the latest Umrah news, visa updates, and tailored pilgrimage packages from the UK, Europe, and Pakistan, stay connected with KSA Travels — your trusted partner for spiritual journeys.
Need assistance with your Umrah plans? Contact KSA Travels today to ensure your visa timing and travel arrangements align with the new regulations.
