- Saudi Arabia began issuing Umrah visas for the new season from May 31, 2026
- Pilgrims can obtain Umrah permits via the Nusuk app, the unified digital platform
- Umrah visas will be issued until March 9, 2027, with final entry by March 23 and departure by April 7
Saudi Arabia has started issuing visas for the new Umrah season from Sunday, May 31. The move comes shortly after the conclusion of this year's Hajj pilgrimage and marks the start of a new cycle of year-round religious travel. Pilgrims can now enter Mecca and secure Umrah permits via the government's Nusuk app, Saudi Arabia's unified digital platform for permits, bookings and pilgrimage services. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announced that Umrah visas will be issued only until Shawwal 1, 1448 AH, or March 9, 2027. Pilgrims must enter Saudi Arabia by March 23, 2027, and depart by April 7, 2027, reported Gulf News.
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The ministry has directed Umrah service providers and overseas agents to strictly follow the approved timetable and all regulations. According to officials, the goal is to maintain service quality and ensure the pilgrimage runs smoothly this season.
In recent years, Saudi Arabia has expanded Umrah services through the Nusuk platform. It now handles electronic permits, automates contracting procedures, and uses QR code verification to simplify the pilgrimage process. The country is also expanding biometric screening, facial recognition and e-permits at airports, land borders and seaports under its wider digital processing system.
The Saudi Data & AI Authority (SDAIA) is managing the digital infrastructure for pilgrims in coordination with immigration, logistics and airport authorities. To improve accessibility, mobile processing systems are being introduced for elderly pilgrims and persons with disabilities.
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As per Connecting Travel, the Kingdom is advancing reforms introduced in November 2025 that replaced traditional tawafa organisations with licensed Hajj hospitality companies. The revised Foreign Pilgrim Service Providers Law makes these operators accountable for accommodation, transport and services.
Official Hajj permits are still mandatory, authorities reiterated. The Ministry of Interior said violators face fines of up to SAR 20,000 (Rs 5 lakh approx), deportation and a 10-year re-entry ban. Restrictions on entering Makkah without permits remain in force during Hajj.
