Saudi Arabia has introduced a one-year multiple-entry Umrah visa, enabling eligible Muslims to perform the lesser pilgrimage several times within a 365-day period without needing to submit a fresh visa application before each trip. The initiative, launched by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, aims to make religious travel more flexible by permitting multiple entries into the Kingdom throughout the visa's validity, provided pilgrims continue to meet the required conditions.
Key Features of the New Umrah Visa
According to Saudi authorities, the visa offers several benefits, including validity of 365 days from the date of issue, multiple entries into Saudi Arabia during the validity period, a maximum cumulative stay of 90 days, and availability to Muslims of all nationalities. Pilgrims are required to book an approved Umrah package through the Nusuk platform and obtain a mandatory Umrah permit through the Nusuk app before each visit. The visa is suspended after departure and reactivated once all requirements for another trip are met. It cannot be used during the annual Hajj season.
Who Can Apply for the One-Year Umrah Visa?
The multiple-entry Umrah visa is open to Muslims worldwide who meet Saudi Arabia's eligibility requirements. Applicants must first purchase an approved Umrah service package through the Nusuk platform before their visa application can be processed.
How to Apply for the One-Year Umrah Visa
Saudi authorities outlined the following application process:
- Book an Approved Umrah Package: Pilgrims must select a package from an authorized provider on the Nusuk platform. Packages are available in standard, premium, and luxury categories, with many including visa processing, insurance, accommodation, transport, and catering services.
- Submit a Visa Application: After purchasing a package, the authorized Umrah agency handling the booking will process the visa application.
- Obtain an Umrah Permit: Before traveling, applicants must secure an Umrah permit through the Nusuk mobile application. Entry into Saudi Arabia for Umrah is subject to obtaining this permit and meeting all current regulations.
- Travel to Saudi Arabia: Once the visa and permit are approved, pilgrims can travel to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah. For subsequent visits within the visa's validity period, travelers must again obtain the required permit and satisfy all prevailing conditions.
Required Documents
Applicants are expected to provide a passport valid for at least six months, a recent passport-sized photograph with a white background, proof of legal residence where applicable, confirmed return or onward flight tickets, hotel or accommodation confirmation, and a travel itinerary.
How Much Does It Cost?
The total cost depends on the Umrah package selected. Standard packages cost approximately Dh2,000 to Dh2,684, while luxury packages range from Dh5,000 to Dh7,000. A standalone visa generally costs between Dh300 and Dh600 for eligible applicants, although actual charges vary depending on the authorized agency, travel season, and package selected.
Comparison with Traditional Visa
Unlike the traditional single-entry Umrah visa, the new permit enables repeat visits while remaining valid for one year from the date it is issued, as reported by Gulf News. This change is expected to significantly ease the process for pilgrims who wish to perform Umrah multiple times within a year.
