When Will Umrah Close and Reopen After Hajj 2026? Full Timeline Announced

Saudi Arabia has outlined the expected Umrah closure and reopening timeline for Hajj 2026 (1447H) as part of its annual crowd management and Hajj preparation plan. Pilgrims planning Umrah before or after Hajj 2026 must carefully follow these dates to avoid visa issues or travel disruption.

Below is a complete breakdown of Umrah entry, exit, closure, and reopening dates for 2026, based on standard Saudi regulations followed every year.

When Will Umrah Close for Hajj 2026?

Umrah does not close suddenly. Instead, Saudi authorities implement a phased shutdown ahead of Hajj to ensure smooth operations in Makkah.

1. Last Day to Issue Umrah Visas

• 20 March 2026
  
• 1 Shawwal 1447H
  

After this date, no new Umrah visas will be issued. Pilgrims must already have an approved visa to travel. Those planning future travel can review available Umrah Packages 2026 to prepare well in advance.

2. Last Entry Date for Umrah Pilgrims

• 3 April 2026
  
• 15 Shawwal 1447H
  

This is the final date for Umrah pilgrims to enter Saudi Arabia.

After 3 April 2026:

• Umrah entry will not be allowed
  
• Access to Makkah will be restricted to Hajj permit holders only
  
• Umrah permits on the Nusuk platform will be suspended
  

Pilgrims intending to perform Umrah earlier in the year, especially during peak spiritual periods, should plan ahead using Ramadan Umrah Packages 2026, as Ramadan Umrah ends well before the Hajj transition period.

3. Mandatory Departure Deadline

• 18 April 2026
  
• 1 Dhu al-Qa’dah 1447H
  

All Umrah pilgrims must leave Saudi Arabia by this date. Remaining beyond the deadline may result in penalties, fines, or future visa restrictions.

This date marks the official end of the Umrah season and the beginning of full-scale Hajj preparations.

When Will Umrah Reopen After Hajj 2026?

Umrah resumes only after:

• Completion of Hajj rituals
  
• Departure of Hajj pilgrims
  
• Removal of crowd-control restrictions
  

Expected Umrah Reopening Date

• Mid to Late June 2026
  
• Beginning of Muharram 1448H (subject to moon sighting)
  

Once Umrah operations resume, pilgrims who wish to plan long-term spiritual journeys may also begin early planning for Hajj 2028, as early preparation is strongly recommended for government and private Hajj schemes.

 Estimated Umrah closure duration: 3–4 weeks

Umrah 2026 Closure & Reopening Timeline (Quick View)

Important Advisory for Pilgrims

Saudi authorities enforce Umrah deadlines strictly every year. Pilgrims are advised to:

• Complete Umrah well before the entry deadline
  
• Exit Saudi Arabia on or before the mandatory departure date
  
• Avoid relying on unofficial extensions or assumptions
  

Failure to follow these dates may affect future Umrah or Hajj visa eligibility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long is Umrah closed after Hajj?

Umrah typically remains closed for approximately 3 to 4 weeks after Hajj to allow for pilgrim departures and operational reset in Makkah and Madinah.

Can I perform Umrah during the Hajj season without a Hajj permit?

No. During the Hajj season, only pilgrims with valid Hajj permits are allowed to enter Makkah. Umrah is not permitted until authorities officially reopen Umrah visas and Nusuk permits.

Do Umrah closure rules apply to all countries?

Yes. Umrah entry, exit, and visa suspension rules apply globally to all pilgrims, regardless of nationality.

Final Summary

• Umrah closes for Hajj 2026 in stages, with final entry on 3 April 2026
  
• All Umrah pilgrims must depart by 18 April 2026
  
• Umrah is expected to reopen in mid to late June 2026 after Hajj concludes
  

For official updates and Umrah planning guidance, pilgrims should continue to monitor announcements from Saudi authorities and trusted Umrah service providers.