Riyadh, Saudi Arabia — 06, August 2025
The Saudi government has announced a fresh wave of updates to the Umrah visa process, aiming to simplify entry procedures and enhance accessibility for pilgrims worldwide. These changes are part of broader efforts under Vision 2030 to modernize religious tourism and improve the pilgrim experience.
This update matters as millions of Muslims from over 180 countries plan to visit the Kingdom for Umrah each year, and many rely on streamlined visa services to ensure smooth travel.
Tourist Visas Now Widely Accepted for Umrah
One of the most significant shifts is the continued use of the Saudi tourist e-visa for performing Umrah. Pilgrims from eligible countries can now apply online without needing to go through travel agents or government-authorized Hajj missions.
This visa allows flexibility in choosing hotels, flights, and transportation and does not require a pre-booked Umrah package through the Nusuk platform — though registering for an Umrah permit on the app remains mandatory before entering the holy sites.
Additionally, women over 18 are now allowed to perform Umrah without a mahram (male guardian), including on tourist visas. This policy, introduced in recent years, remains in full effect for 2025.
Faster Processing, Extended Validity
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah confirmed that visa applications are now being processed faster, with most tourist visas issued within 24–48 hours. Moreover, the validity of tourist visas for Umrah remains 12 months, allowing multiple entries for those who wish to revisit the Kingdom during the year.
For pilgrims arriving via countries not eligible for the e-visa, traditional Umrah visas are still available through local agents, but the process has also been digitized to reduce paperwork and delays.
Strong Focus on Digital Infrastructure
Saudi authorities continue to improve mobile app services, including Nusuk, which offers real-time permit bookings, crowd tracking, and accommodation tools. The app is available in multiple languages and plays a key role in managing pilgrim flow in the Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah.
Saudi Arabia’s 2025 Umrah visa policies reflect a continued commitment to accessibility, digital convenience, and safe pilgrimage. As the high season approaches, these updates are expected to support millions of Muslims planning their spiritual journey with greater ease and independence.
Also Read: How Many People Perform Umrah Each Year? Latest 2025 Stats & Facts