Saudi Arabia Issues Over 190,000 Umrah Visas as 1447 AH Season Begins

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has confirmed that more than 190,000 Umrah visas have been issued to international pilgrims since the start of the 1447 AH Umrah season, which began on June 10, 2025. The announcement reflects a strong start to the season and underscores the Kingdom’s continued efforts to enhance religious tourism under its Vision 2030 strategy.

The season’s formal launch on 14 Dhu Al-Hijjah 1446 AH marked the opening of visa applications via Saudi Arabia’s integrated digital platform, Nusuk. This online system allows pilgrims to apply for visas, book accommodation, and plan their pilgrimage journey with ease, forming a cornerstone of the Kingdom’s broader move toward smart pilgrimage management.

According to the Saudi Press Agency, permit issuance through the Nusuk app began on June 11, a day after visa applications opened. The platform also provides access to transport services, accommodation bookings, and digital guides in multiple languages, making the pilgrimage process more efficient and accessible.

The robust early turnout follows a successful Hajj season, during which Saudi authorities streamlined procedures, enhanced digital infrastructure, and improved service efficiency. These upgrades contributed to a more seamless and fulfilling experience for pilgrims—efforts the Kingdom is now extending to the Umrah season.

In a related development, the General Directorate of Passports launched a 30-day grace period starting on Muharram 1, 1447 AH, allowing holders of expired visit visas to apply for an extension in order to exit the country. Applications must be submitted via the Ministry of Interior’s Absher platform, with all applicable fees and penalties paid in full.

In a further regulatory update, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has made it mandatory for Umrah companies and agents to submit documented housing contracts for all pilgrims as a precondition for visa issuance. These contracts must be registered through the Nusuk Masar platform and involve hospitality facilities licensed by the Ministry of Tourism. The new measure, which came into effect at the start of the season, aims to protect pilgrims’ rights and ensure quality standards across the accommodation sector.

The launch of the 1447 AH Umrah season reflects the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts to position itself as a leader in religious tourism and smart pilgrimage services. With demand surging and digital systems firmly in place, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is expected to continue rolling out enhancements throughout the year to improve safety, service quality, and overall pilgrim satisfaction.