Saudi Arabia Opens Umrah Access to All Visa Holders Under New Regulations

Saudi Arabia has made significant changes to its Umrah regulations for 2025. Now, anyone with a valid visa, whether tourist, work, or family, can perform the pilgrimage. To participate, pilgrims must register through the Nusuk platform and confirm their hotel and transport bookings before applying.

Transforming the Umrah Experience

This policy shift allows millions of Muslims worldwide to perform Umrah more easily. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announced that all valid Saudi visa holders can now partake in this sacred pilgrimage. This historic decision, reported by the Saudi Press Agency, enhances accessibility for pilgrims.

Previous Umrah Regulations

Under the old rules, travelers had to obtain a special Umrah visa to perform the pilgrimage. Typically, these visas were arranged through designated tour operators or specific pilgrimage programs. Visitors traveling on other visa types were not allowed to undertake Umrah, leading to extra paperwork and longer wait times.

The new regulations eliminate these hurdles. Now, a tourist visiting family in Jeddah or a professional working in Riyadh can perform Umrah without needing a separate visa.

Significance of the Change

This decision aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, aiming to boost tourism, especially religious tourism, as a vital part of the economy. By allowing various visa types for Umrah, Saudi Arabia hopes to facilitate visits to Mecca and Medina. This initiative also encourages greater travel and spending throughout the country.

New Umrah Rules for 2025

While the new policy enhances access to Umrah, certain rules must be followed in 2025:

• Bookings Through Nusuk Platform: All pilgrims must register for Umrah and book accommodations through the official Nusuk platform or licensed travel agents.
• Hotel and Transport Confirmation: Starting June 10, 2025, pilgrims must provide confirmed hotel and transport bookings made through the Nusuk Masar system before their visa can be approved. Applications without these confirmations will be rejected.
• Entry and Exit Deadlines: Those using a dedicated Umrah visa must adhere to specific timelines:
• Entry Restrictions: After April 13, 2025, Umrah entries will be suspended to prepare for Hajj pilgrims.
• Visa Resumption: Applications for Umrah visas will reopen on June 10, 2025, allowing pilgrims to plan future visits.

Pilgrims who fail to leave on time may face financial penalties and legal action under Saudi residency laws.

Checklist for Pilgrims

If you plan to perform Umrah in 2025, follow this checklist for a smooth experience:

• Choose Your Visa Type: Tourist, work, family visit, or transit are all valid options.
• Register on Nusuk: Schedule your Umrah time and obtain digital permits.
• Book through Nusuk Masar: Ensure your hotel and transport are pre-approved.
• Follow the Deadlines: Enter before April 13 and exit by April 29 if using an Umrah visa.
• Stay Compliant: Keep your passport valid and meet health requirements, including vaccinations.

A Modernized Future for Umrah

Saudi Arabia’s decision is not just about easier access; it represents a modernization of the Umrah planning process. The new digital platforms aim to make the pilgrimage more organized, inclusive, and secure. While the process is now simpler, it requires better preparation from pilgrims.

In conclusion, 2025 could be a transformative year for Umrah, offering a more flexible journey for anyone with a valid Saudi visa, provided they prepare wisely.