Saudi Arabia has once again updated its Umrah visa policy. Throughout the year, pilgrims from every part of the world travel to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah. Makkah and Madinah have always been dream cities to visit for Muslims. The recent update in the Umrah visa has made it mandatory for travel agents to craft Umrah Packages and for Umrah pilgrims to plan their Umrah according to the new Umrah visa rule.

This blog will walk you through the new Umrah visa rule and how it affects pilgrims and how it impacts the Umrah Packages in 2025 and 2026.

What is the New Umrah Visa Rule?

In a recent announcement, the duration of the Umrah visa has been reduced to 30 days. Previously, pilgrims could enter Saudi Arabia within 90 days from the date of visa issuance, but now it is mandatory for them to perform Umrah and return to their home country within 30 days of receiving the visa. The validity of the Umrah visa has been shortened to 30 days. Umrah visas will be automatically cancelled after 30 days, and pilgrims can not travel after 30 days or stay in Saudi Arabia once the Umrah visa expires. On the other hand, Saudi Arabia has also allowed pilgrims to perform Umrah on any visa type.

In addition to the new Umrah visa rules, it is now mandatory for Umrah pilgrims to book Umrah Packages with confirmed hotel bookings, transport arrangements, and compliance with the visa rules through the official pilgrimage platform Nusuk. Therefore, pilgrims are required to book registered hotels first to apply for the Umrah visa. Moreover, the travelers must be aware of the new visa update, including short validity, required pre-booking for hotels, compliance with the rules, and the types of visas they can apply for. 

Why Saudi Arabia Changed the Visa Rule?

There are several reasons behind this change. First, millions of pilgrims throughout the year gather in Makkah to perform Umrah. The gathering of millions at the same time makes crowd management difficult. Hence, efficient services and smoother logistics become difficult to manage. By shortening the duration, it ensures pilgrims stay for a shorter time. It also ensures that the visa is used efficiently and that accommodation and transport are in accordance with the schedule.

Second, making hotel and transport booking mandatory in advance helps pilgrims protect the desired accommodation and also from unexpected delays and cancellations. The advance booking of accommodations and transportation ensures logistics are approved and properly synced. Hence, minimizing the chance of cancellation. 

Third, allowing all valid visa holders to perform Umrah. This accessibility is aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. Allowing all visa holders to perform Umrah enhances the Umrah experience. The change in the Umrah visa rules by the Saudi government is to enhance the pilgrimage experience, to raise service standards, and to make the pilgrimage safer and better organized.

How does It Impact Pilgrims?

If you are planning Umrah, you need to understand the change completely. Now, pilgrims have to plan Umrah according to the new Umrah rules. Pilgrims have to travel within 30 days of the Umrah visa issuance to ensure a seamless Umrah. If, for any reason, your exit or entry is delayed, you have to reapply for the Umrah visa.

It is also important to understand that compliance is a must. Confirm with your agent that your Umrah Package contains the registered hotels. Without providing the details of hotels and the route, the visa may be delayed or rejected. 

Third, since Saudi Arabia has allowed Umrah on different visa types, Umrah pilgrims should consider their needs before applying for a visa. But, pilgrims must still ensure the rules are followed, no matter what the visa type is.

It is also important to note that pilgrims must stay in Saudi Arabia within the visa limit and should exit before the time limit. Overstaying can lead to heavy penalties and an entry ban on Saudi Arabia for the future. It means pilgrims should not leave things for the last minute. It is recommended to plan Umrah early and book an Umrah package as early as possible.

How to Pick the Best Umrah Package Under the New Rules?

Given the large influx, choosing the right Umrah Package 2025 is crucial. Here are some features and factors, Umrah pilgrims should look for. Having an idea of the new Umrah rules ensures your journey aligns with the changes.

Clear Timeline and Arrival

Before finalizing your Umrah package, make sure it clearly mentions the complete timeline, including when the visa will be applied for, the date of issuance, and the arrival date in Saudi Arabia (especially if it’s a flight-inclusive package). The new 30-day validity window means pilgrims should plan to perform Umrah as soon as they receive their visa. Ask your travel agent for the exact dates and confirm that your arrival and return both fall within the allowed period.

Confirmed Hotel and Transport Bookings

According to the new Umrah rules, it is now mandatory to book registered hotels and transport for the Umrah visa. Ensure your package is made according to the new rules.

Location and Quality of Accommodation

Now that the time window is limited, it is important to check what hotels are provided in your Umrah package. A hotel closer to the Haramain will allow you to spend more time in prayers and less in commuting.  The package should specify the star category, room type, and proximity to the holy sites. 

Final Thoughts 

The change in the Umrah visa rule by Saudi Arabia means that pilgrims need to be more careful about their travel timings. The 30-day Umrah visa validity from the date of issuance sends a clear message that pilgrims must plan and perform Umrah within this period. At the same time, the requirement for confirmed bookings and organized transport helps make the journey more secure and well-managed. Choosing a reliable Umrah package can ensure a smoother and more comfortable pilgrimage experience.

May your journey be filled with peace, reflection, and fulfilment.