In a landmark move poised to invigorate religious tourism and provide added convenience to Pakistani pilgrims, the Saudi Arabian government has extended the Umrah visa duration for travelers from Pakistan to a generous 90 days. The announcement was made by Dr. Tawfiq Bin Fawzan Al Rabiah, the esteemed Saudi Minister for Hajj and Umrah, during a joint press conference that witnessed the convergence of Saudi and Pakistani officials.
Extending the Umrah visa period has a dual goal: enhancing the pilgrim experience and boosting religious tourism in Saudi Arabia. New pilgrimage sites are opening in Makkah and Madinah. Dr. Tawfiq Bin Fawzan Al Rabiah expressed Saudi Arabia’s strong support for Pakistani pilgrims. This extension underscores enduring cooperation between both nations’ authorities.
To ease the Hajj pilgrimage’s financial burden, Dr. Tawfiq Bin Fawzan Al Rabiah introduced Riyadh’s innovative measures, including 100 more historical and religious sites. His visit to Pakistan resulted in substantial discussions and a significant air connectivity agreement via civil aviation authorities to strengthen ties.
To aid elderly Pakistani pilgrims, Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs requested exemptions from biometrics for those aged 65 and above for Hajj and Umrah. This inclusive move aligns with the pilgrimage’s spirit. The ministry also asked for new sites for Pakistan Houses due to mosque expansion.
Dr. Tawfiq Bin Fawzan Al Rabiah’s visit included meetings with President Arif Alvi and Caretaker Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar. President Alvi emphasized boosting economic ties, especially in IT, renewable energy, and industrial development. He thanked Saudi Arabia for the well-organized Hajj and praised their efforts in Muslim causes, highlighting Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman’s role in normalizing relations with Iran.
The longer Umrah visa shows goodwill between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, strengthening their enduring ties rooted in shared faith.
