Before Departing for Umrah, Review Saudi Arabia's New Tourist Visa Regulations

The journey to the Holy Land has always been a deeply meaningful experience, and now Saudi Arabia is opening a new, more flexible pathway for prospective pilgrims. The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah permits the use of tourist visas for performing Umrah. This significant change eases spiritual travelers' departure planning.

In a report by the SPA News Agency on Sunday, November 5, 2025, the Ministry confirmed all visa types can now be used for Umrah, including personal and family visit visas, electronic tourist visas (e-tourist), transit visas, work visas, and other visa categories.

This policy forms part of arrival procedure simplification and expanded access to Hajj and Umrah services, supporting Saudi Vision 2030.

For prospective pilgrims wishing to travel using tourist visas, this guide helps design the religious journey.

1. Utilize Electronic Tourist Visa Convenience

The Saudi electronic tourist visa (e-visa) remains valid for one year with a stay duration of up to 90 days, legally usable for performing Umrah.

This flexibility allows travelers to arrange trips according to personal schedules while enjoying longer, more profound pilgrimage experiences.

Beyond online applications, Visa on Arrival is available at select Saudi entry points for certain nationalities.

This facility greatly assists those requiring spontaneous travel without months of preparation.

2. Note Revised Umrah Visa Validity Reduced to 30 Days

As reported by Saudi Gazette via Al-Arabiya sources, Saudi Arabia implemented new rules regarding Umrah visa validity. The visa entry window for the Holy Land is now only 30 days from issuance, replacing the previous three-month validity period.

However, pilgrims' stay duration remains 90 days post-arrival, enabling calm Umrah observance without rushing.

This policy anticipates predicted surges in Umrah pilgrims as temperatures in Makkah and Madinah decrease post-summer.

3. Use Nusuk Umrah Platform for Independent Travel

For pilgrims seeking detailed itinerary planning, the Nusuk Umrah platform proves highly beneficial.

The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah launched this platform to simplify direct service bookings without travel agency intermediaries.

Through this platform, prospective pilgrims can select tailored Umrah packages, electronically process Umrah permits, and choose desired facilities in Makkah and Madinah.

4. Prepare Documents & Schedule per New Regulations

With multiple visa options for Umrah, prospective pilgrims must ensure passports remain valid, tourist or other visas meet requirements, comply with issuance timelines and the 30-day Umrah visa window, and ensure travel duration doesn't exceed the 90-day stay limit.

Detailed preparation guarantees smooth spiritual journeys free from administrative obstacles.

5. Worship and Religious Tourism Experience

Using tourist visas grants pilgrims freedom to explore Saudi Arabia's cultural and historical landscapes. From Jeddah's Islamic Museum to the Prophet's travel routes in Madinah.