Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah explained that residents of GCC (Gulf Cooperation Countries) have several simplified options for performing Umrah.
Easy Options
With a clear goal to make Umrah easier and more accessible, the Ministry emphasized that GCC residents have three visa options, according to the Ministry’s account on X.
Umrah Visa: Available by purchasing an Umrah package on the Nusuk platform (www.nusuk.sa).
Tourist Visa: Obtainable through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website (https://ksavisa.sa).
Transit Visa: Available through flight bookings with Saudi Arabian Airlines or Flynas.
“If you reside in any Gulf country and intend to perform Umrah, there are multiple easy pathways available all to ensure a smooth journey, as Mecca and Medina eagerly await your visit,” the Ministry explained.
Easy Permits
The ministry also clarified that Umrah pilgrims should obtain permits to pray in the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina.
Such permits are available through the Nusuk application.
Current Umrah Season
The current Umrah season commenced in late June following the successful of 2024 Hajj pilgrimage, which saw around 1.8 million Muslims worldwide.
Approximately 13.5 million Muslims performed Umrah last year, with plans to host 15 million pilgrims next year, according to Saudi officials.
Smooth Procedures
Saudi Arabia has recently issued numerous new measures to facilitate Umrah procedures.
For example, the authorities have extended Umrah visa from 30 to 90 days, allowing holders to enter the Kingdom through all land, air, and seaports and depart from any airport.
Moreover, those who are holding various types of entry visas, including personal, visit, and tourism visas, are now allowed to perform Umrah and visit Al Rawda Al Sharifa at the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina after booking an e-appointment.
Saudi citizens can also invite their friends abroad to visit the kingdom and perform Umrah.
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