New Umrah season begins as Saudi Arabia opens visa applications

Saudi Arabia has officially opened visa applications for the new Umrah season, effective Sunday, Dhul Hijjah 14, 1447 AH, corresponding to May 31, 2026.

According to the 1448 AH Umrah season calendar recently released by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, pilgrims began obtaining Umrah permits through the Nusuk application starting Monday, June 1.

Holders of valid Umrah visas will be allowed to perform Umrah at the Masjid al-Haram (Grand Mosque) once they secure the required permits through the digital platform.

The ministry said the new Umrah season calendar is part of the efforts to streamline procedures and enhance the pilgrimage experience through advanced digital systems and integrated operational services.

The initiative is also aimed at improving operational efficiency, elevating the quality of services provided to pilgrims, and strengthening the readiness of the Kingdom’s Umrah ecosystem ahead of the upcoming season.
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Under the approved timetable, Shawwal 1, 1448 AH, corresponding to March 9, 2027, will be the final date for the issuance of Umrah visas. Shawwal 15, 1448 AH (March 23, 2027), will mark the deadline for Umrah pilgrims to enter the Kingdom.

The ministry has directed Umrah service providers and overseas agents to strictly adhere to the approved schedule and all applicable regulations. Officials said the measures are intended to maintain service quality and ensure the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage throughout the season.

Following the opening of the new Umrah season by Saudi authorities, Nairobi-based Umrah service provider Senator Travels Limited announced the commencement of services for pilgrims planning to undertake the minor pilgrimage. “We are pleased to announce that the new Umrah season has begun, and Senator Travels has already started issuing visas,” the company said in a statement.