Saudi Arabia has announced that all visitors and residents, regardless of their visa type, can now perform Umrah while in the Kingdom. The Ministry of Haj and Umrah confirmed the decision in a statement released on Sunday, calling it a major step toward improving access and convenience for Muslims around the world.
According to the Saudi Press Agency, individuals holding personal, family visit, electronic tourist, transit, or work visas are now eligible to perform Umrah during their stay in the country. The ministry said the move aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to enhance religious tourism and expand services for pilgrims.
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The statement noted that the decision reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to making religious rituals easier and more accessible, allowing Muslims to perform Umrah “with ease and peace of mind.”
Umrah, a non-mandatory pilgrimage to Makkah that can be undertaken at any time of the year, draws millions of visitors annually. The new policy is expected to significantly increase the number of pilgrims entering Saudi Arabia under various visa categories.
Meanwhile, in July, Pakistan’s federal cabinet approved the Haj Policy 2026, outlining new procedural and financial guidelines for future pilgrimage seasons. Pakistan remains one of the countries with the largest annual Haj quota granted by Saudi Arabia.
