The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has officially announced the complete calendar for the Umrah season 1448 AH, running from June 1, 2026 through April 7, 2027. The announcement, published via the Saudi Press Agency, sets out all key dates for visa issuance, pilgrim entry, and departure deadlines for the coming season.

The Full Umrah 1448 Timeline

  • May 31, 2026 (14 Dhul Hijjah 1447): Umrah visa issuance resumes. International pilgrims can begin arriving in Saudi Arabia.
  • June 1, 2026 (15 Dhul Hijjah 1447): Entry to Makkah reopens. Umrah permits available through the Nusuk app. Pilgrims can proceed to Masjid al-Haram.
  • March 9, 2027 (1 Shawwal 1448): Last day for issuing new Umrah visas.
  • March 23, 2027 (15 Shawwal 1448): Final date for international Umrah pilgrims to enter Saudi Arabia.
  • April 7, 2027 (1 Dhul Qi'dah 1448): All Umrah pilgrims must have departed the Kingdom by this date. Hajj season transition begins.

Important Rule Change: 30-Day Entry Window

A significant change for the 1448 season: pilgrims must now enter Saudi Arabia within 30 days of their Umrah visa being issued. This is a reduction from the previous 90-day window.

If you fail to enter within 30 days, your visa is automatically cancelled and you must reapply through the Nusuk platform. This means pilgrims should only apply for their visa once travel dates and flights are confirmed - do not apply speculatively.

Nusuk App Mandatory

The Nusuk app remains the sole platform for obtaining Umrah permits to enter Masjid al-Haram. All pilgrims must:

  • Download the Nusuk app (iOS/Android) and create a verified account
  • Book Umrah permits through the app before visiting the Grand Mosque
  • Use the app for Rawdah visit bookings in Madinah
  • Carry their digital Nusuk card at all times during their stay

Best Times to Visit

The Umrah season 1448 spans approximately 10 months, offering several distinct windows:

  • June-September 2026: Post-Hajj period. Least crowded but hottest (40-48 degrees Celsius in Makkah). Best for those seeking a quieter, more personal experience. Hotel prices at their lowest.
  • October-December 2026: Temperatures moderate to 30-35 degrees. Crowds increase gradually. Good balance of comfort and affordability.
  • January-February 2027: Coolest months (20-28 degrees). Increasing demand as Ramadan approaches. Book early.
  • Ramadan (expected late February/March 2027): The most spiritually significant time for Umrah but also the most crowded and expensive. Every prayer in Masjid al-Haram during Ramadan carries the reward of a thousand prayers elsewhere.

For Hajj 2026 Pilgrims Still in Saudi Arabia

If you performed Hajj 2026 and are still in the Kingdom, you can perform Umrah from June 1 onwards by obtaining a permit through the Nusuk app. Many pilgrims combine a post-Hajj Umrah with their visit to Madinah before departing. Check with your tour operator whether your visa and accommodation arrangements cover this.

Looking Ahead to Hajj 2027

Hajj 2027 (1448 AH) is expected to fall in mid-May 2027 - approximately 10 days earlier than Hajj 2026 due to the Islamic lunar calendar's annual drift. Saudi authorities have not yet opened registration, but it is expected to begin around November-December 2026 through the Nusuk Hajj platform. Quotas and pricing for the 1448 season will be announced separately.