Saudi Arabia Introduces One-Year Multiple-Entry Umrah Visa for Pilgrims Worldwide

Saudi Arabia has announced a major update to its Umrah visa policy, introducing a one-year multiple-entry Umrah visa to make religious travel easier for millions of Muslims worldwide.

The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announced that eligible tourists are now able to undertake the pilgrimage multiple times in a year with a single pilgrim visa. The new policy eliminates the requirement of applying for a new visa for Umrah before each visit, which will provide convenience and flexibility for those who visit frequently.

The ministry said the Umrah visa for multiple visits would be valid for 365 days from the date of issuance. Pilgrims can enter and exit Saudi Arabia several times during this period with a maximum of 90 days allowed for the entire stay.

Saudi authorities, however, have explained that this is because the multiple-entry Umrah visa may not be used during the Hajj season. The pilgrims who plan to make their first visit to the Kingdome for Hajj are required to get the relevant Hajj visa and abide by the Kingdom’s official rules and regulations.

As part of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing initiatives to enhance the pilgrimage experience, the latest visa program aligns with the goals set out in Vision 2030 to attract more international visitors and facilitate access to the Two Holy Mosques.

The announcement is anticipated to profit millions of Muslims who aim to carry out Umrah once a year, or more, without needing to submit the visa applications again. It will further promote religious tourism and ease travel arrangements for pilgrims and families.

Travelers are recommended to verify the updated eligibility criteria and application process before travelling as further eligibility conditions may apply based on their country of origin and nationality.