AhlulBayt News Agency: Saudi Arabia has announced that Umrah visa applications will reopen on Tuesday, June 10, allowing international pilgrims to begin preparations for their spiritual journey to Mecca and Medina.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah confirmed that the new Umrah season will officially commence, with the first groups of foreign pilgrims expected to arrive on Wednesday, June 11.
Umrah is distinct from Hajj, as it can be performed at any time throughout the year. In contrast, Hajj is limited to specific dates in the Islamic lunar calendar and requires extensive logistical planning due to the large number of attendees.
According to ministry officials, service providers and international agents were instructed to finalize agreements by May 27 in preparation for the reopening of Umrah visa applications.
The announcement follows the conclusion of this year’s Hajj pilgrimage, which welcomed more than 1.6 million pilgrims from around the world. While many pilgrims have already returned to their home countries, others continue their journey to Medina for additional religious observances.
Each year, Umrah visas are temporarily suspended in the weeks leading up to Hajj to ensure that resources are directed toward managing the significantly larger pilgrimage. This pause helps facilitate crowd control and safety measures.
Saudi officials have indicated that further details regarding travel procedures, health requirements, and pilgrim quotas for the new Umrah season will be shared in the coming months. The current Umrah cycle will extend into Islamic year 1447 (2026).
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