Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has introduced a one-year multiple-entry Umrah visa that lets pilgrims visit the Kingdom several times over 12 months, with a combined stay of up to 90 days. The Saudi Press Agency reported the launch on 20 July 2026, describing it as a step to make the pilgrimage easier for Muslims worldwide.
The visa marks one of the most significant changes to Umrah entry rules in recent years. Until now, most international pilgrims held single-entry visas tied to one trip. The new document opens the door to repeat visits within a single validity period, a benefit expected to appeal to frequent travellers, residents of nearby countries, and families who make the journey more than once a year.
How the new visa works
According to the ministry, the visa is valid for 365 days from the date of issuance. Holders may enter the Kingdom multiple times during that year, provided their total stay across all visits does not exceed 90 days.
The system is closely tied to Nusuk, the Kingdom's official digital platform for international pilgrims. For each entry, a pilgrim must purchase a service package from an approved provider on Nusuk. The duration of that package cannot exceed the number of days remaining on the visa. Pilgrims must also obtain an Umrah permit through the Nusuk app before travelling.
The ministry explained that the visa is deactivated each time a visitor leaves Saudi Arabia and reactivated for the next visit once the relevant regulatory requirements have been met. This means each entry is treated as a fresh booking, with its own package and permit.
One important restriction applies. The visa cannot be used to enter the Kingdom during the annual Hajj season, which runs from the first of Dhul Qadah to the 13th of Dhul Hijjah. Pilgrims intending to perform Hajj must still follow the separate Hajj registration and permit process.
Part of a wider push to welcome more pilgrims
The ministry said the measure aligns with Saudi Vision 2030 and the Pilgrim Experience Programme, which aim to facilitate arrivals, enrich the pilgrim experience, and improve the efficiency of services. The Kingdom has set ambitious targets to raise the number of Umrah performers each year as part of its broader effort to strengthen its role as a religious and cultural hub.
The new visa follows a series of recent easing measures. In July 2025, the Kingdom opened year-round Umrah access to Gulf citizens and residents. Saudi authorities have also expanded digital services on Nusuk, allowing pilgrims to apply for visas and book accommodation, transport, and permits online without intermediaries.
Umrah is a non-mandatory pilgrimage to Makkah that can be performed at any time of the year, unlike Hajj, which falls during a fixed period in the Islamic calendar. Although shorter and simpler than Hajj, Umrah carries deep spiritual meaning for Muslims across the world, and demand has grown strongly. The ministry reported earlier in July that arrivals on Umrah visas had climbed 22.5 per cent in the opening weeks of the 1448 season.
Practical tips for pilgrims
Pilgrims considering the new visa should keep several points in mind. First, plan trips carefully to stay within the 90-day cumulative limit, since days are counted across every visit, not per entry. Second, remember that a valid Nusuk service package and an Umrah permit are required for each separate entry, so book through approved providers well ahead of travel. Third, avoid planning any entry during the Hajj season, when the visa is not valid.
As always, pilgrims should confirm the latest requirements through official channels such as the Nusuk app and the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah before booking flights, and should ensure passports and any health documentation meet the Kingdom's entry rules.