Saudi Arabia begins issuing Umrah visas after Hajj season

Saudi Arabia started issuing Umrah visas on Sunday, just hours after the conclusion of the Hajj season, signaling early readiness to welcome pilgrims from around the world. The visas are processed through the unified digital platform “Nusk,” which also allows users to book and obtain travel permits for the pilgrimage.

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has set deadlines for visa issuance: March 9 for new visas, March 23 for entry, and April 7 for departure. Officials highlighted the extensive security and logistical arrangements that facilitated a smooth Hajj, and the same infrastructure is now being leveraged for the upcoming Umrah season, with expectations of millions of foreign pilgrims.

Saudi authorities, including the General Directorate of Passports, confirmed the readiness of all departure points—air, land and sea—to process departing pilgrims efficiently, ensuring orderly travel after the religious rites.