Saudi advances expiry date of Umrah visas for Hajj pilgrims; validity starts from date of issuance

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced a significant update regarding the expiry of Umrah visas for pilgrims arriving from outside the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

As per the recent declaration, Dhul Qadah 15 (corresponding to May 23) will mark the final day for the expiration of Umrah visas, a change from the previous expiry date of Dhul Qadah 29 (corresponding to June 6). This adjustment aims to facilitate the smooth influx of pilgrims to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah for the annual Hajj pilgrimage.

The ministry has also clarified that the validity period of the three-month Umrah visa will start from the date of its issuance, rather than from the date of entry into Saudi Arabia, as previously practiced. This clarification comes in response to inquiries received through the ministry's X platform.


"Concluding your spiritual Umrah journey with a timely departure before your visa expires is unparalleled," the ministry said.


Emphasizing the coordination between the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it has been affirmed that the Umrah visa remains valid for three months from the date of issuance, ensuring its expiry no later than Dhul Qadah 15. This adjustment, approved two weeks (14 days) prior to the previously announced expiry date of Dhul Qadah 29, aims to streamline administrative processes and enhance the pilgrimage experience for visitors to the holy sites.

The ministry's proactive measures reflect its commitment to facilitating pilgrimages and ensuring a seamless journey for pilgrims to the sacred destinations of Makkah and Madinah.

In 2024, the Hajj rituals are set to begin from the evening of Friday, 14th June, and wrap up on the evening of Wednesday, 19th June. This timing is contingent upon the sighting of the moon of Dhul Hijjah, the 12th month of the Islamic calendar.