Saudi Arabia has announced significant relaxations in the rules for performing Umrah, aiming to facilitate Muslims worldwide. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah stated on social media that individuals with various types of visas are now permitted to undertake Umrah.
According to the ministry, Umrah rituals are accessible to holders of all visas, including personal, family, transit, labor, and e-visas. The Nusuk app can be utilized to obtain a permit for Umrah, simplifying the process for Muslims.
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Previously, the expiry date for Umrah visas was announced as Dhul Qadah 29. However, the government has now revised it to Dhul Qadah 15 to ensure a smoother influx of pilgrims to Makkah and Madinah. Additionally, the validity period of the three-month Umrah visa now starts from the date of issuance, rather than from the date of entry into Saudi Arabia.
Moreover, Saudi Arabia is finalizing arrangements for this year’s Hajj, scheduled for June. In 2023, the Saudi government restored Pakistan’s pre-pandemic Hajj quota and abolished the upper age limit of 65. This year, more than 63,000 applicants from Pakistan were selected for Hajj 2024 through a government scheme.
