Any visa holder can now perform Umrah

Saudi Arabia has announced that individuals holding various types of visas are now permitted to undertake Umrah, the minor pilgrimage, with ease.

“Arrivals from anywhere and with any visa can perform Umrah with ease and comfort,” the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah said in an X post.

The ministry emphasised that Umrah rituals are accessible to holders of all visas, including personal, family, transit, labour, and e-visas.

“Whatever the type of your visa, you can do Umrah,” it added.

Pilgrims are encouraged to utilise the Nusuk app to obtain an Umrah permit and adhere to designated timings for the rituals at the Grand Mosque in Mecca, Islam’s holiest site, reports Gulf News.

The Nusuk platform facilitates various procedures, including accommodation arrangements, for Muslims planning to perform Umrah and visit Medina, Islam’s second holiest site.

In recent months, the kingdom has introduced a host of facilities for overseas Muslims to come to the country to perform Umrah.

These initiatives aim to accommodate millions of Muslims worldwide who undertake Umrah, especially those who may not be able to participate in the annual Hajj pilgrimage due to physical or financial constraints.

Recent enhancements include extending the Umrah visa duration from 30 to 90 days, allowing entry via all land, air, and sea ports, and eliminating the requirement for women pilgrims to be accompanied by male guardians.

Additionally, expatriates in Gulf Cooperation Council countries and holders of Schengen, US, and UK visas can now book Umrah appointments via the Nusuk app before arriving in Saudi Arabia.