Umrah Season to Reopen: Saudi Government Confirms June 11 Commencement Post-Hajj 2025

Makkah, Saudi Arabia – In a highly anticipated announcement for millions of Muslims worldwide, the Saudi government has officially declared that the Umrah season for international pilgrims will commence on June 11, 2025.¹ This crucial decision comes shortly after the projected conclusion of the Hajj 2025 pilgrimage, marking the beginning of a new cycle for the minor pilgrimage. The Saudi government's prompt reopening of the Umrah season underscores its commitment to facilitating spiritual journeys to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah for pilgrims globally.

I. The Anticipated Reopening: A New Umrah Season Begins

The announcement of the Umrah season commencing on June 11, 2025, is a pivotal moment for countless Muslims who eagerly await the opportunity to perform the minor pilgrimage after the conclusion of the annual Hajj.² This resumption of Umrah activities is a testament to the Saudi government's efficient management of religious tourism and its dedication to serving the guests of Allah.

A. A Timely Announcement: Post-Hajj Resumption of Umrah

The Umrah season typically pauses during the Hajj period to manage the immense influx of Hajj pilgrims.³ With Hajj 2025 occurring from approximately June 4 to June 9, the Saudi government has wasted no time in confirming the return of Umrah. The period immediately following Hajj is often highly sought after for Umrah, as the spiritual atmosphere remains charged with the devotion of millions. The June 11 start date ensures a smooth transition and allows pilgrims to commence their journeys without significant delay. This strategic timing reflects the Saudi government's meticulous planning and foresight in handling the logistics of religious tourism on a grand scale.

• Significance of the Date: The June 11, 2025, date means that the Umrah season will officially open on the 15th of Dhul Hijjah 1446 AH, according to the Islamic calendar. This is just days after the final rituals of Hajj are completed, demonstrating the efficiency with which the Saudi government pivots from managing the annual Hajj to welcoming Umrah pilgrims.
• Visa Issuance Commencement: Complementing the June 11 start date for pilgrim arrivals, the Saudi government has also announced that the issuance of Umrah visas will begin a day earlier, on June 10, 2025 (14 Dhul Hijjah 1446 AH). This staggered approach allows for preliminary processing, ensuring that pilgrims have their necessary documentation ready for travel.

B. Ensuring Pilgrim Readiness: A Collaborative Effort

The seamless commencement of the Umrah season relies on a collaborative effort between the Saudi government, various ministries, and international travel agents. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has been instrumental in outlining a comprehensive calendar for the upcoming Umrah season (1447 AH / 2025-2026 AD).⁴

• Digital Platforms: The Saudi government has heavily leveraged digital platforms like "Nusuk" and "Umrah Path" to streamline the processes of visa application, service agreements, and pilgrim management.⁵ These platforms are crucial for ensuring transparency and efficiency for millions expected to travel for Umrah.
• Agent Qualification and Contracts: To maintain high service standards, the Saudi government initiated the qualification service for external agents as early as March 25, 2025. Formal signing of service agreements between Umrah companies and foreign agents began on April 14, with a deadline set for May 27, 2025 (29 Dhul Qadah 1446 AH). This ensures that pilgrims work with authorized and reliable service providers.

II. Preparing for Umrah: Key Dates and Important Considerations

The Saudi government's announcement provides a clear roadmap for prospective Umrah pilgrims, outlining crucial dates and considerations for their journey.⁶

A. The New Umrah Season Calendar (1447 AH / 2025-2026 AD)⁷

The detailed calendar released by the Saudi government is vital for all stakeholders involved in the Umrah process.⁸

• Commencement of Pilgrim Arrivals: June 11, 2025 (15 Dhul Hijjah 1446 AH) is the official start date for international pilgrims to begin arriving in the Kingdom for Umrah.⁹
• Start of Visa Issuance: June 10, 2025 (14 Dhul Hijjah 1446 AH) marks the beginning of Umrah visa issuance for the new season. Pilgrims are encouraged to initiate their visa application processes promptly after this date.
• Deadline for Finalizing Service Agreements: Service agreements between Umrah companies and foreign agents were required to be finalized by May 27, 2025 (29 Dhul Qadah 1446 AH).¹⁰ This deadline was essential for ensuring that all logistical arrangements are in place before the Umrah season fully commences.
• Last Date for Umrah Visa Issuance: The final deadline for issuing Umrah visas for the 1447 AH season is March 20, 2026 (1 Shawwal 1447 AH).¹¹
• Last Arrival Date for Pilgrims: International Umrah pilgrims must arrive in the Kingdom no later than April 3, 2026 (15 Shawwal 1447 AH).
• Final Departure Date for Pilgrims: All foreign Umrah pilgrims are required to depart Saudi Arabia by April 18, 2026 (1 Dhul Qadah 1447 AH). This date is set to allow for preparations for the subsequent Hajj season.

Table: Key Dates for Umrah Season 1447 AH (2025-2026 AD)

B. Health and Safety Guidelines for Pilgrims

The Saudi government places paramount importance on the health and safety of all pilgrims. With Hajj 2025 already forecasted to be exceptionally hot, pilgrims embarking on Umrah immediately after should also be prepared for similar conditions.

• Weather Advisory: The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has issued advisories for the holy sites, forecasting daytime temperatures ranging between 40°C and 47°C during the Hajj period.¹² While Umrah extends beyond this, the early part of the Umrah season in June will still experience significant heat. Pilgrims are urged to take extra precautions.
• Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is crucial. Pilgrims should drink plenty of water, especially Zamzam water, to combat the heat and humidity.¹³
• Protection from the Sun: Use of umbrellas, sunglasses, and light-colored, loose-fitting clothing is highly recommended to protect against direct sun exposure.
• Vaccinations: Compliance with all mandatory vaccination requirements (e.g., Meningitis, Yellow Fever, Polio, and any active COVID-19 protocols) is essential for Umrah visa approval and entry.¹⁴

III. The Umrah Journey: A Brief Overview of the Minor Pilgrimage

While the Hajj is a pillar with specific annual dates, Umrah is a minor pilgrimage that can be performed at any time of the year.¹⁵ It involves fewer rituals than the Hajj but holds immense spiritual reward.¹⁶

A. Rituals of Umrah: Simplicity and Devotion

The rituals of Umrah are concentrated and can typically be completed within a few hours. They include:

1. Ihram (State of Purity): Pilgrims enter the state of Ihram at a designated Miqat (a boundary for entering Makkah).¹⁷ This involves purification, making the intention for Umrah, and donning the specific Ihram attire (two white seamless sheets for men; modest, regular clothing for women).¹⁸ All Ihram prohibitions, such as cutting hair/nails, using perfume, or engaging in marital relations, apply.
2. Tawaf (Circumambulation of Kaaba): Upon reaching the Grand Mosque in Makkah, pilgrims perform Tawaf by circling the Kaaba seven times in a counter-clockwise direction.¹⁹ Each circuit begins and ends at the Black Stone, with pilgrims reciting prayers and supplications.
3. Sa'i (Walking between Safa and Marwah): After Tawaf, pilgrims perform Sa'i by walking and jogging seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah, commemorating Hajar's search for water.²⁰ This is performed within a designated pathway in the Grand Mosque.
4. Halq (Shaving) or Taqsir (Trimming): The Umrah concludes with men shaving their heads (Halq) or women trimming a fingertip's length of their hair (Taqsir). This act symbolizes spiritual renewal and marks the end of the Ihram state.

B. Spiritual Significance of Umrah

Even as a "minor pilgrimage," Umrah holds profound spiritual significance:

• Forgiveness of Sins: It is believed that performing Umrah is an expiation for the sins committed between two Umrahs.²¹
• Reward: The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stated that performing Umrah during Ramadan is equivalent to performing Hajj with him.²²
• Proximity to Allah: It provides an opportunity for intense worship, prayer, and drawing closer to Allah (SWT) in the most sacred places on Earth.
• Fulfillment of Desire: For those unable to perform Hajj, Umrah offers a chance to visit the holy sites and fulfill a lifelong desire to perform a pilgrimage.

IV. Impact and Future Outlook

The Saudi government's consistent efforts to streamline and expand access to Umrah are part of its broader Vision 2030, which aims to welcome 30 million Umrah pilgrims annually.

A. Economic and Tourism Boost

The reopening of the Umrah season is not only a spiritual boon but also provides a significant boost to Saudi Arabia's tourism sector and economy.

• Increased Visitor Numbers: The clear schedule allows tour operators and pilgrims to plan well in advance, leading to potentially higher visitor numbers for the upcoming Umrah season.
• Job Creation: The Umrah industry supports numerous jobs in hospitality, transportation, and related services, contributing to local economic growth.
• Infrastructure Development: Ongoing investments in infrastructure, such as airport expansions, hotel development, and transportation networks, are designed to accommodate the growing number of Umrah pilgrims and enhance their experience.

B. A Vision for Enhanced Pilgrim Experience

The Saudi government is continuously working to improve the pilgrim experience, incorporating technology and efficient management.²³

• "Nusuk" and "Umrah Path" Systems: These digital platforms are central to the modernization drive, simplifying visa applications, booking accommodations, and managing itineraries. Pilgrims are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these systems.
• Regulated Services: The stringent qualification requirements for foreign agents and the mandatory finalization of service agreements ensure that pilgrims receive regulated and quality services during their Umrah journey.
• Safety and Security: The Saudi government maintains robust security measures and health protocols to ensure the safety and well-being of all Umrah pilgrims 

V. Conclusion: A Call for Planning and Patience

As the Umrah season is set to commence on June 11, 2025, after the conclusion of Hajj 2025, the message to prospective pilgrims is clear: plan meticulously, adhere to regulations, and approach the journey with sincerity and patience. The Saudi government has laid out a comprehensive framework to facilitate this sacred journey, ensuring that millions worldwide can fulfill their spiritual aspirations.²⁵ This continuous commitment to welcoming guests to the holy cities reinforces Saudi Arabia's role as the custodian of the two holy mosques and a dedicated servant of the Muslim Ummah.²⁶ Pilgrims from Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan, and indeed from all corners of the globe, can now look forward to embarking on their Umrah with clear guidance and support from the Saudi government.