Saudi Arabia has started issuing Umrah visas for the new pilgrimage season, marking the beginning of preparations for the 1448 AH cycle shortly after the conclusion of this year's Hajj.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announced that international pilgrims can now apply for Umrah visas and begin arriving in the Kingdom for the year-round pilgrimage. The new season officially opened on May 31, allowing pilgrims to start planning their visits to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina.
The move signals the start of another major pilgrimage season as Saudi Arabia continues efforts to streamline travel, improve services and manage the growing number of visitors arriving from around the world.
Key dates announced for pilgrims
Along with reopening visa applications, Saudi authorities have also released important deadlines for the upcoming Umrah season.
As per NDTV quoted in their report, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, Umrah visas will be issued until March 9, 2027. Pilgrims must enter Saudi Arabia by March 23, 2027, while the final departure date for Umrah visitors has been set for April 7, 2027.
The ministry has instructed Umrah operators, travel agencies and service providers to follow the approved schedules and regulations to ensure smooth operations throughout the season. Officials said the measures are aimed at maintaining service quality and improving the overall pilgrimage experience.
Nusuk app remains central to the process
Pilgrims seeking permits for Umrah will continue to use the government's Nusuk platform, which has become the central digital gateway for pilgrimage-related services.
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The app allows users to obtain permits, manage bookings and access other services connected to their religious journey. Saudi Arabia has increasingly expanded the platform's role in recent years as part of its wider digital transformation efforts.
According to NDTV's report, authorities have also introduced electronic permits, automated procedures and QR code-based verification systems to simplify the process for visitors. These measures are intended to reduce paperwork and improve efficiency across different stages of the pilgrimage.
Focus on technology and accessibility
Saudi Arabia has continued investing in technology-driven systems to manage the movement of millions of pilgrims.
The Kingdom is expanding biometric screening, facial recognition systems and electronic permit checks across airports, land crossings and seaports. The Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) is overseeing parts of the digital infrastructure in coordination with transport, immigration and airport authorities.
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As per NDTV's report, the officials have also introduced mobile processing services aimed at assisting elderly pilgrims and persons with disabilities, reflecting broader efforts to make the pilgrimage process more accessible.
The reopening of Umrah visa services marks the beginning of a new season expected to welcome pilgrims from across the world as Saudi Arabia continues to modernise pilgrimage management while handling large-scale religious travel.
