Saudi Arabia Tightens Umrah Operator Rules and Suspends Violators
Saudi Arabia is enforcing stricter licensing rules for Umrah operators and suspending companies that breach service standards, part of a drive to protect pilgrims.
Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 16 Sep 2026, 10:23 AM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia is enforcing stricter licensing rules for Umrah operators and suspending companies that breach service standards, part of a drive to protect pilgrims.
Saudi Arabia has set stricter health and fitness requirements for pilgrims, barring serious uncontrolled conditions and mandating vaccination and physical capability.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has introduced a one-year, multiple-entry Umrah visa allowing pilgrims to enter the Kingdom several times with a cumulative stay of up to 90 days, booked through the Nusuk platform.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has published the 1448 AH Umrah calendar: visa issuance ends 9 March 2027, final entry is 23 March 2027, and all Umrah-visa pilgrims must leave by 7 April 2027, with Nusuk permits required throughout.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has issued the 1448 AH Hajj roadmap, setting a 26 September 2026 registration deadline, discontinuing the lowest package tier, and mandating operator training and integrated service packages.
The Third Saudi Expansion of the Grand Mosque has raised capacity to around 1.85 million worshippers, with work continuing toward more than two million.
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Heavy rain and thunderstorms hit Mecca creating dramatic scenes as worshippers prayed at the Grand Mosque.
Third Group of Guests of Custodian of Two Holy Mosques' Umrah Program Departs Makkah وكالة الأنباء السعودية