Business Desk 
Oct 31, 2025
In an effort to control crowds during the pilgrimage season, the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has implemented a new regulation, reducing the Umrah visa validity period before entering into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA).
The revised rules state that if the pilgrim does not register to enter Saudi Arabia, the Umrah visa will be revoked 30 days after it is issued.
National Committee for Umrah and Visit Adviser Ahmed Bajaeifer stated that the decision was intended to control the anticipated increase in Umrah pilgrims, especially after the summer season ends and the temperatures in Makkah and Madinah begin to decline.
"The goal is to avoid crowding in the two sacred cities," he stated.
As per the Al Arabiya report, the new regulation will be effective from next week. Pilgrims can continue to stay for up to three months after they arrive.
Since the new season began in early June, the KSA has already issued over 4 million Umrah visas, which officials say is a record pace in comparison to prior years.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has implemented a number of administrative and digital changes in recent years to expedite visa applications, enhance facilities, and facilitate pilgrimages for tourists from all over the world.
