Saudi Arabia Updates Umrah Visa Rules for 1448AH Season

This article is correct as of 2026-06-25.

The new Umrah season for 1448 AH has officially begun, and the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has introduced a significant change to the visa process that every DIY pilgrim needs to be aware of. While the season brings renewed opportunities for spiritual journeys, this key update affects the timeline for your travel plans.

For years, pilgrims had a generous window to plan their trip after their visa was issued. That has now changed, requiring a much quicker turnaround from visa approval to arrival in the Kingdom. Here’s what you need to know to plan your Umrah trip smoothly under the new regulations.

## Key Change: Umrah Visa Entry Now Valid for 30 Days

The most critical update for the 1448 AH season is the reduction of the Umrah visa’s entry validity period. Previously, pilgrims had 90 days from the date of issuance to enter Saudi Arabia. This window has now been shortened to just 30 days. [1]

It’s crucial to understand the distinction here:

* **Entry Validity:** This is the period *within which you must enter* Saudi Arabia. This is the part that has been reduced to 30 days. If you do not travel to the Kingdom within one month of your visa being issued, it will be automatically cancelled, and you will need to apply for a new one.
* **Duration of Stay:** This is the period you are permitted to *stay in Saudi Arabia after you have entered*. This remains unchanged at up to 90 days.

This policy shift has a direct impact on how you should plan your trip. You must now finalize and book your flights and accommodation much sooner after your visa is approved. The days of getting a visa and then waiting a couple of months to find the best travel deals are over. The new rule compels pilgrims to be more decisive and organized in their planning. This is a deliberate move to better manage the flow of pilgrims and ensure that visa slots are used efficiently. Correct as of June 2026, this change requires you to have your travel itinerary largely settled before you even apply for the visa.

## The 1448AH Umrah Season is Officially Open

With the conclusion of the Hajj season, Saudi Arabia has reopened its doors for Umrah pilgrims. The issuance of Umrah visas for the new Hijri year 1448 began on May 31, 2026. Pilgrims can enter the Kingdom and perform their rituals throughout the coming months.

According to official announcements, the season will continue until the lead-up to the next Hajj. The final date for issuing new Umrah visas is set for March 9, 2027. All pilgrims who travel on an Umrah visa must depart from Saudi Arabia by the final exit date of April 7, 2027. These dates provide a clear framework for planning your pilgrimage anytime between now and early next spring.

## Nusuk App Remains Central to Your Umrah Journey

The Nusuk digital platform continues to be the cornerstone of the Umrah experience. The app, which has surpassed 51 million users worldwide, is mandatory for all pilgrims. It is your single gateway for obtaining the necessary permits to perform Umrah and to visit Al-Rawdah Al-Sharifah in Madinah.

You cannot simply show up at the Haram in Makkah and expect to perform the rituals. You must book a specific time slot through Nusuk, and these permits are checked by officials at the entrances. The system is designed to manage crowd levels and ensure a safe and smooth experience for everyone. The platform integrates over 130 services, including links to approved booking agents for lodging and transport, making it an indispensable tool for the modern DIY pilgrim. Make sure you have the app downloaded and are familiar with its interface well before you travel.

## What Hasn’t Changed: Vaccination and Entry Points

While the visa validity rule is a major change, many other requirements remain consistent with previous years. Health and safety protocols are still a priority.

The mandatory vaccinations for all pilgrims include:
* **Meningococcal Meningitis (ACYW):** A certificate of vaccination is required. The conjugate vaccine must have been taken within the last 5 years, and the polysaccharide vaccine within the last 3 years.
* **COVID-19:** Pilgrims must be fully vaccinated with a Saudi-approved vaccine (such as Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca, or Johnson & Johnson).
* **Other Vaccines:** Depending on your country of origin, you may also need proof of vaccination against Polio or Yellow Fever.

Check with the Saudi Ministry of Health’s official website or your local authorized travel agent for the most up-to-date list of requirements before booking.

In terms of travel, Umrah visa holders are permitted to enter Saudi Arabia through several international airports, including Jeddah (JED), Madinah (MED), Yanbu (YNB), and Taif (TIF). You can also enter via Riyadh (RUH) or Dammam (DMM) on national carriers, but you will need to book a separate domestic flight to Jeddah or Madinah to begin your journey.

## Practical Advice for DIY Pilgrims in Light of the New Rule

The new 30-day entry rule demands a slight adjustment in your planning strategy. The best approach is to have your ideal travel dates, hotel choices, and flight options researched *before* you apply for your visa.

Once your visa is issued, book your flights and accommodation immediately to lock everything in within the 30-day window. This minimizes the risk of your visa expiring before you can travel.

For transport between the holy cities, the Haramain High-Speed Railway remains the most efficient and comfortable option, connecting Makkah and Madinah in just over two hours. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Careem are also widely available for getting around within the cities.

Many pilgrims overpack clothes and forget the small essentials. Remember to pack unscented soap and toiletries for your state of ihram, comfortable slip-on sandals, and a small drawstring bag for your shoes. A refillable water bottle is also essential for staying hydrated with Zamzam water. The new rules demand better planning, but the core of a successful DIY Umrah remains the same: prepare well, pack light, and focus on the spiritual purpose of your journey.

## Notes

[1] almahadtravels.com/blog/new-umrah-visa-rules