What's Happening?
Saudi Arabia has launched a new multiple-entry Umrah visa valid for one year, allowing pilgrims to enter the Kingdom multiple times within a year while staying for a combined total of up to 90 days. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announced this initiative
as part of efforts to make religious travel more flexible and improve services for pilgrims, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030 and the Pilgrim Experience Program. Under the new rules, visa holders can make multiple visits during the one-year validity period, but the total duration of all stays cannot exceed 90 days. Pilgrims must purchase a service package through an approved provider on the Nusuk platform before each visit, and obtain an Umrah permit through the Nusuk application before arriving in Saudi Arabia. The visa will automatically deactivate when a pilgrim leaves the Kingdom and reactivate only after the traveler meets the required regulations for a subsequent visit. The multiple-entry visa will remain unavailable during the Hajj season.
Why It's Important?
The introduction of the new Umrah visa is significant as it enhances the flexibility and convenience for pilgrims wishing to perform Umrah multiple times within a year. This move is expected to boost religious tourism, a key component of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and reduce dependency on oil revenues. By improving the digital services supporting pilgrims, the initiative also aligns with the broader goal of enhancing the overall pilgrim experience. The visa's restrictions during the Hajj season ensure that the focus remains on managing the larger influx of pilgrims during this period, maintaining safety and order.
