RIYADH — Saudi Arabia has announced a major change to its Umrah visa policy, allowing pilgrims to enter the Kingdom multiple times within a one-year period using a single visa, in a move aimed at making religious travel easier and more flexible for Muslims around the world.
Under the new system, eligible visitors will no longer need to apply for a new visa every time they wish to perform Umrah or visit the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah. Instead, travelers can use the same visa for several trips throughout its validity period.
The decision is expected to benefit millions of Muslims who regularly travel to Saudi Arabia for worship, particularly during peak religious seasons such as Ramadan, when demand for Umrah visits traditionally surges.
For example, a pilgrim who performs Umrah during Muharram can return later in the year—such as during Ramadan—without having to obtain another visa, provided the original visa remains valid.
Saudi authorities said the initiative forms part of broader efforts to improve services for pilgrims and support the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 strategy, which seeks to increase the number of religious visitors while streamlining travel procedures.
Travel and tourism operators have welcomed the move, saying it will reduce administrative burdens, cut processing times, and lower costs associated with repeated visa applications. The policy is also expected to encourage more frequent visits to the Kingdom’s holy sites.
The announcement comes as Saudi Arabia continues investing heavily in infrastructure, transport networks, digital services, and accommodation facilities designed to enhance the experience of pilgrims arriving from across the globe.
Religious travelers and tour operators are advised to review the detailed eligibility requirements and entry conditions issued by Saudi authorities before making travel arrangements.
The new multiple-entry Umrah visa is being viewed as one of the most significant facilitations introduced in recent years for Muslims seeking easier access to the Two Holy Mosques.
