Saudi Arabia has announced a major update for Muslim pilgrims with the introduction of a new multiple-entry Umrah visa, making it easier to perform the sacred pilgrimage more than once within a year. The move is part of the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts to improve the pilgrimage experience, boost religious tourism and simplify travel for millions of international visitors.
Announced by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, this initiative forms a key part of the kingdom’s Vision 2030 and the Pilgrim Experience Program, aimed at enhancing accessibility, enriching spiritual journeys, and boosting religious tourism.
The new visa allows eligible pilgrims to enter Saudi Arabia multiple times within a 12-month validity period, with a cumulative stay of up to 90
days. This marks a major departure from previous single-entry restrictions, making it easier for devotees to plan repeated visits around their personal, family, or work schedules.
The newly introduced visa allows eligible pilgrims to enter Saudi Arabia multiple times within its validity period without submitting a new application for each visit.
The initiative forms part of Saudi Arabia’s broader Vision 2030 strategy, which aims to welcome more religious visitors while making travel smoother through digital services and streamlined visa procedures.
Officials say the new visa is expected to reduce paperwork and make repeat pilgrimages significantly more convenient.
Saudi Arabia’s New Multiple-Entry Umrah Visa: Key Changes
The most important update is the introduction of multiple entries under a single visa valid for 365 days from the date of issuance. Eligible pilgrims can now visit Saudi Arabia several times throughout the year instead of applying for a new visa for each trip.
The biggest change is the ability to perform multiple Umrah pilgrimages without applying for a new visa each time.
Some of the major benefits include:
- Multiple entries during the visa’s validity period.
- Less paperwork for repeat travellers.
- Greater flexibility when planning pilgrimages.
- Easier travel for families and frequent visitors.
- Support for Saudi Arabia’s growing religious tourism sector.
However, there is a cumulative stay limit of up to 90 days across all visits. The visa automatically deactivates upon departure from Saudi Arabia and can be reactivated for future trips once all regulatory requirements are met.
A notable restriction remains: the visa cannot be used during the Hajj season (from 1st Dhu Al-Qi’dah to 13th Dhu Al-Hijjah). This ensures dedicated management of the annual obligatory pilgrimage.
Saudi Arabia’s New Umrah Visa Eligibility and Who Can Apply
The new multiple-entry Umrah visa targets Muslims from around the world, with particular benefits expected for travelers from high-volume countries such as India, Pakistan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, and others. While specific nationality lists may expand, the visa is available to those meeting standard Umrah eligibility criteria.
Applicants must:
- Hold a valid passport.
- Meet Saudi Arabia’s immigration and security requirements.
- Apply through authorised visa channels or approved platforms, depending on their country of residence.
- Comply with all regulations governing Umrah travel.
Eligibility requirements may vary depending on nationality and the visa route used, so travellers are advised to check the latest guidelines before submitting an application.
What Pilgrims Need To Know: Step-by-Step Process
To successfully use this visa, pilgrims must follow a structured digital process through Saudi Arabia’s official Nusuk platform:
Book an Approved Service Package: Before each visit, pilgrims must purchase a service package (including accommodation, transportation, and other facilities) from an authorized provider on Nusuk. The package length must not exceed the remaining validity of the visa.
Obtain Umrah Permit: An electronic Umrah permit must be secured via the Nusuk app before traveling to Saudi Arabia.
Compliance on Arrival and Departure: Pilgrims are expected to adhere to all immigration and pilgrimage rules. The visa reactivates for subsequent trips only after proper exit and fulfillment of conditions.
This digital-first approach aims to reduce paperwork, minimize waiting times, and provide a smoother overall experience.
Can Pilgrims Visit Places Beyond Makkah and Madinah?
The visa also gives eligible visitors the opportunity to explore other parts of Saudi Arabia during their stay, subject to visa conditions. Pilgrims can visit destinations such as Riyadh, Jeddah, AlUla, the Red Sea coast and several cultural and heritage attractions.
Saudi Arabia has been actively promoting tourism beyond religious travel, encouraging visitors to experience its history, architecture, natural landscapes and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
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