Riyadh: Saudi Arabia has introduced a new one-year (365-day) multiple-entry Umrah visa, making it easier for eligible pilgrims to perform Umrah more than once without applying for a new visa each time. The new policy, effective from 19 July 2026, is part of the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts to improve pilgrimage services and support the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
The new visa is expected to benefit millions of Muslims worldwide by providing greater flexibility for travel to the Kingdom throughout the year.
What Is the New One-Year Umrah Visa?
Under the new policy, eligible pilgrims can obtain an Umrah visa that remains valid for 365 days from the date of issuance. During this period, visa holders may enter Saudi Arabia multiple times for the purpose of performing Umrah.
Unlike previous Umrah visas, which generally required a new application for every journey, the new visa allows repeated visits throughout the year, making travel more convenient and cost-effective.
Maximum Stay Allowed
Although the visa is valid for one year, it does not permit unlimited time inside Saudi Arabia.
The maximum total stay is 90 days during the one-year validity period. Every day spent in the Kingdom is deducted from the available balance.
For example:
- First visit: 20 days
- Second visit: 30 days
- Third visit: 40 days
After completing these visits, the total 90-day allowance is exhausted, even if the visa remains valid.
Multiple Entries Throughout the Year
The visa allows travelers to leave Saudi Arabia and return again during the visa’s validity, provided they still have remaining days from the 90-day allowance and continue to meet all entry requirements.
This offers greater flexibility for pilgrims who wish to perform Umrah more than once in a year.
Umrah Permit Still Required
Receiving the visa alone is not sufficient to perform Umrah.
Before every Umrah journey, pilgrims must:
- Select an approved Umrah package.
- Obtain an Umrah permit through the Nusuk platform.
- Complete flight and travel bookings in accordance with Saudi regulations.
Pilgrims should ensure that all required permits are approved before traveling.
Hajj Season Restrictions
The one-year Umrah visa cannot be used during the Hajj season.
Visa holders must comply with Saudi regulations and leave the Kingdom before the Hajj restriction period begins. Staying in Saudi Arabia during the restricted Hajj period without authorization may result in legal penalties.
Who Can Benefit?
The new visa is expected to benefit:
- Muslims who wish to perform Umrah multiple times each year.
- Families planning repeated visits.
- Overseas residents who frequently travel to Saudi Arabia.
- Pilgrims seeking greater flexibility in planning their religious journeys.
Part of Saudi Vision 2030
The launch of the one-year multiple-entry Umrah visa reflects Saudi Arabia’s continued investment in improving pilgrimage services through digital platforms, streamlined procedures, and enhanced visitor experiences.
The initiative aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to increase the number of pilgrims visiting the Kingdom while providing world-class services and modern travel facilities.
Important Reminder
Before making travel plans, pilgrims should always verify the latest visa regulations, eligibility requirements, airline policies, and official Umrah guidelines issued by the Saudi authorities, as rules may be updated from time to time.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only. Travelers should always refer to official Saudi government announcements and the Nusuk platform for the latest visa requirements, eligibility criteria, and pilgrimage regulations before traveling.
