Saudi Arabia Announces Start Date for Umrah Season

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced the schedule for this year’s Umrah season. According to the new timetable, Umrah visa holders will be allowed to enter Makkah and perform Umrah from June 1.

The ministry said the updated schedule was introduced as part of integrated services and management for foreign Umrah pilgrims. It also sets out various stages and deadlines for Umrah companies, overseas agents, and pilgrims, Gulf News reported.

According to the announced timeline, preliminary contract activities between Umrah companies and foreign agents began on March 4. This was followed by the Umrah and Ziyarah Forum and the signing of initial agreements on March 30.

A preparatory meeting for the upcoming season was held on May 5. Later, on May 11, the qualification verification and final contract procedures for foreign agents were completed.

The ministry also said that the process of finalizing contracts for service providers and preparing Umrah packages through electronic platforms is now in its final stages. Issuance of Umrah visas will begin on May 31.

Under the new calendar, March 9, 2027, has been set as the final date for issuing Umrah visas. March 23, 2027, will be the last date for Umrah pilgrims to enter Saudi Arabia, while all pilgrims must leave the country by April 7, 2027.

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah said the new plan aims to make the Umrah experience easier and more efficient through improved digital systems and integrated services.