The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in Saudi Arabia has announced that over 190,000 Umrah visas have been issued to international pilgrims since the official start of the Umrah season for the Hijri year 1447 AH (June 26, 2025 to June 15, 2026).
The Umrah season formally began on Tuesday, 14 Dhu Al-Hijjah 1446 AH (June 10, 2025), with visa applications opened through the country’s integrated digital platform, “Nusuk”. The move aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader goals under Vision 2030, aimed at enhancing religious tourism and modernising services provided to pilgrims.
Read-Umrah travel expansion: 2.5m airline seats targeted for pilgrims
According to a report by the Saudi Press Agency, Umrah permit issuance started the following day, Wednesday, 15 Dhu Al Hijjah (June 11, 2025), through the Nusuk app. This unified platform offers a range of services, allowing users to book and issue permits seamlessly. It also includes digital tools that support logistics, accommodation, and itinerary planning for pilgrims and visitors.
The early rush of Umrah applications follows a notably successful Hajj season, during which the country implemented streamlined procedures, boosted technical infrastructure, and achieved significant gains in performance and service efficiency. These upgrades contributed to a smoother and more fulfilling experience for pilgrims.
Passports directorate launches 30-day grace period for expired visit visas
In a related development, the General Directorate of Passports launched a 30-day initiative beginning Muharram 1, 1447 AH, to allow the extension of expired visit visas for the purpose of final exit. This includes all types and categories of visit visas.
Eligible individuals must pay any required fees and penalties as per regulations. Applications for extension can be submitted via the “Tawasul Service” on the Ministry of Interior’s Absher electronic platform.
Authorities have urged all those affected to take advantage of the grace period and ensure compliance before the deadline to avoid legal complications.
Housing contracts now mandatory for Umrah Visa issuance
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has issued a directive requiring Umrah companies, establishments, and international agents to document housing contracts for all Umrah performers. These contracts must be with hospitality facilities licensed by the Ministry of Tourism and must be registered through the “Nusuk Masar” platform.
This new measure aims to improve service quality, protect pilgrim rights, and ensure regulatory compliance. The issuance of Umrah visas is now contingent upon submitting a documented accommodation contract.
The policy took effect at the start of the Umrah season and reflects enhanced cooperation between the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and the Ministry of Tourism. Authorities stressed that early documentation is crucial to avoid processing delays or potential violations.
This initiative is expected to enhance safety, comfort, and the overall experience for Umrah performers from arrival to departure, while also regulating the hospitality sector during peak seasons.
Umrah season launch reflects broader Vision 2030 goals
The launch of the 1447 AH Umrah season not only signals the return of millions of religious visitors but also underscores Saudi Arabia’s push to realize the objectives outlined in Vision 2030, particularly in the area of religious tourism.
According to the Ministry, the Nusuk app continues to play a central role in this transformation. It enables pilgrims to obtain permits digitally, access real-time updates, and receive support in multiple languages. Technical preparations began well in advance of the season’s opening, with coordination from several government agencies to ensure high service standards.
Efforts have also been made to increase the accessibility and quality of services available to pilgrims, including the expansion of awareness content in various languages and improvements to transportation and accommodation logistics.
These enhancements are part of a broader plan to position the Kingdom as a leader in smart pilgrimage management, ensuring that visitors to the Two Holy Mosques enjoy a spiritually fulfilling and comfortable experience.
As the 1447 AH Umrah season progresses, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is expected to continue introducing reforms and technological innovations to streamline the pilgrimage journey. With early indicators pointing to strong demand, the Kingdom remains committed to offering an elevated level of service, while maintaining safety, efficiency, and transparency across all stages of the Umrah process.
