Saudi Arabia has launched a new multiple entry Umrah visa. (AP Photo)
Saudi Arabia has rolled out a new one-year multiple-entry Umrah visa, allowing eligible Muslims to perform the pilgrimage multiple times without applying for a fresh visa before every visit.The move, introduced by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah as part of Vision 2030, is aimed at making religious travel more convenient for pilgrims worldwide, including those from India and Indian expatriates.According to the Gulf News, the visa comes with specific eligibility criteria, application requirements and stay limits that travellers should understand before planning their journey.
What is the new multiple-entry Umrah visa?
The new visa remains valid for 365 days from the date of issuance and permits multiple entries into Saudi Arabia during that period.However, pilgrims can stay in the Kingdom for a maximum cumulative period of 90 days across all visits. The 90-day limit does not reset after each trip, and any unused days remain available until the visa expires.The visa is not valid during the annual Hajj season. It is automatically deactivated when a pilgrim leaves Saudi Arabia and reactivated before the next visit after all required conditions are met.
Who is eligible?
The visa is available to Muslims of all nationalities, including Indian citizens and Indian expatriates living in countries such as the UAE, the UK, the US and Canada, provided they meet the prescribed requirements. Applicants must first purchase an approved Umrah service package before submitting a visa application.
Here’s how to apply
The application process begins through Saudi Arabia’s Nusuk platform:
- Book an authorised Umrah package through Nusuk.
- The package may include visa processing, insurance, accommodation, transport and other services.
- The authorised Umrah agency processes the visa application.
- Obtain an Umrah permit through the Nusuk app before travelling.
- Travel to Saudi Arabia after approval and comply with the applicable regulations for every subsequent visit.
Pilgrims must obtain a fresh Umrah permit and fulfil Nusuk requirements before each trip, even though the visa remains valid for one year.
Key features
- Valid for 365 days from the date of issue.
- Allows multiple entries into Saudi Arabia.
- Maximum 90-day cumulative stay across all visits.
- Cannot be used during the Hajj season.
- Requires an approved Umrah service package and an Umrah permit before every trip.
- Visa is suspended upon departure and reactivated once conditions for the next visit are fulfilled.
How much does it cost?
According to Gulf News, the overall cost depends on the package selected through Nusuk.Standard Umrah packages: Around Dh2,000 to Dh2,684, generally including accommodation, insurance, transport and visa-related services.Luxury packages: Around Dh5,000 to Dh7,000, depending on hotels and additional services.Standalone Umrah visa (for UAE residents): Typically Dh300 to Dh600.Actual costs may vary depending on the authorised agency, travel season, accommodation category and package inclusions.
Documents required
Applicants should generally keep the following ready:
- Passport valid for at least six months.
- Recent passport-sized photograph.
- Confirmed return or onward flight ticket.
- Hotel or accommodation booking.
- Travel itinerary.
UAE residents are also required to submit copies of their Emirates ID and residence visa.
Can you perform Umrah multiple times on one visa?
Yes. The main advantage of the new visa is that pilgrims can perform Umrah several times during its one-year validity without obtaining a new visa for every trip.However, each visit requires an approved service package, an Umrah permit through Nusuk, and compliance with the latest Saudi regulations. Go to Source
