Saudi Arabia resumes umrah visa issuance

Saudi Arabia has resumed issuing Umrah visas from Tuesday, June 10, allowing international pilgrims to begin returning to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. The move comes shortly after the Kingdom concluded what officials described as one of the safest and most efficiently managed Hajj seasons in recent years.

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah confirmed that the new Umrah season is officially underway, with the first wave of foreign pilgrims arriving on Wednesday, June 11. The resumption aligns with the Islamic calendar date of 14 Dhul Hijjah 1446.

In preparation, Umrah companies and international agents were required to complete all service agreements by May 27 (29 Dhul Qadah 1446), according to the ministry’s guidelines.

The announcement follows a successful Hajj season that saw over 1.6 million pilgrims participate from around the world. Authorities have praised the season for its high level of organisation, safety measures, and the integration of advanced technologies to manage crowds and services.