Hajj 2025 Concludes: Saudi Arabia Resumes Issuing Umrah Visas Today

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – June 10, 2025 – The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has officially announced the resumption of Umrah visa issuance, effective today, June 10, 2025 (corresponding to 14 Dhul Hijjah 1446 AH). This pivotal decision follows the successful and meticulously managed conclusion of Hajj 2025, signaling the immediate reopening of the holy cities of Mecca and Medina for millions of prospective Umrah pilgrims worldwide. The resumption of Umrah visas is a highly anticipated development for the global Muslim community, allowing them to fulfill their spiritual aspirations outside of the annual Hajj pilgrimage season.

The Conclusion of Hajj 2025: A Triumph of Management and Devotion

The annual Hajj pilgrimage, a spiritual cornerstone for Muslims globally, successfully concluded on June 9, 2025. This year's Hajj 2025 attracted an impressive number of pilgrims, with over 1.6 million Muslims from more than 150 nations converging in the holy cities of Mecca and Medina to perform the sacred rites. The Saudi authorities have received widespread commendation for their exemplary management of the Hajj 2025 season, ensuring a safe, secure, and spiritually fulfilling experience for all Hajjis.

The scale of Hajj 2025 was immense, requiring extensive logistical planning and execution. Key operational highlights of Hajj 2025 included:

• Efficient Crowd Management: Advanced systems and dedicated personnel were deployed to manage the vast number of pilgrims circulating at the holy sites, minimizing congestion and ensuring smooth movement during critical rituals.
• Robust Health Protocols: Comprehensive health measures were in place to safeguard the well-being of pilgrims, including extensive medical facilities, emergency care expansion, and rapid response teams.
• Seamless Transportation: Over 20,000 buses and trains were utilized to transport pilgrims efficiently between various holy sites, showcasing the Kingdom's commitment to modern infrastructure.
• Digital Integration: The leveraging of digital platforms, such as Nusuk, played a crucial role in streamlining services, from registration to in-kingdom support for Hajj pilgrims.

The success of Hajj 2025 has set a strong precedent for future pilgrimages, underscoring Saudi Arabia's unwavering commitment to enhancing the pilgrim experience under the visionary leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and the continuous direct supervision of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin¹ عبدالعزیز آل سعود. The seamless conclusion of Hajj 2025 has paved the way for the timely and confident resumption of Umrah visas.

The New Umrah Season: A Gateway to Spiritual Fulfillment

With the conclusion of Hajj 2025, the focus now shifts to the Umrah season, which is set to welcome pilgrims from across the globe. Unlike Hajj, which is bound to a specific period in the Islamic lunar calendar, Umrah can be performed year-round, offering flexibility for millions of Muslims to undertake this lesser pilgrimage. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah had previously confirmed the start of the new Umrah season, and the issuance of Umrah visas today is a clear signal for aspiring pilgrims to begin their preparations.

The first batch of foreign pilgrims for the new Umrah season is anticipated to arrive on Wednesday, June 11, 2025 (corresponding to 15 Dhul Hijjah 1446 AH), just one day after the Umrah visa issuance officially began. This swift transition highlights the Kingdom's readiness and efficiency in managing the flow of pilgrims.

The new Umrah cycle will extend well into 2026, encompassing the Islamic year 1447H. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has outlined a detailed calendar for the Umrah season, providing clarity on key dates and deadlines for pilgrims and travel operators alike.

Key Dates for Umrah Season 1447H / 2025-2026:

These dates are crucial for pilgrims and travel agencies to plan their Umrah packages and visa applications effectively. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah's proactive approach ensures a structured and organized Umrah season.

Temporary Visa Suspension During Hajj and Its Lifting

In the lead-up to Hajj 2025, Saudi Arabia had implemented a temporary suspension on the issuance of various short-term visas. This included Umrah visas, as well as business and family visit visas, for citizens of 14 countries. This measure was a strategic decision by the Saudi authorities to manage the high influx of pilgrims and prevent overcrowding during the intense Hajj season. The goal was to ensure that the Kingdom's full logistical, health, and security capabilities were exclusively focused on accommodating the Hajj pilgrimage, which involves a significantly larger number of pilgrims compared to Umrah, within a concentrated timeframe.

The countries affected by this temporary restriction included:

• India
• Pakistan
• Bangladesh
• Egypt
• Indonesia
• Iraq
• Nigeria
• Jordan
• Algeria
• Sudan
• Ethiopia
• Tunisia
• Yemen
• Morocco

This temporary suspension was specifically implemented to avoid issues such as unauthorized Hajj pilgrimages and to maintain stringent control over inbound travel during the sacred period. Many who tragically succumbed to heat stress during Hajj 2024 were reportedly unregistered and unable to access vital air-conditioned amenities. By suspending short-term visas, the Kingdom aimed to ensure:

• Uninterrupted planning and execution of Hajj.
• Safer conditions for all Hajj pilgrims.
• More efficient utilization of resources during the peak pilgrimage time.

With Hajj 2025 now concluded, the Saudi authorities have lifted these temporary restrictions, allowing for the resumption of Umrah visas and other short-term visit categories. This swift action reflects the Kingdom's commitment to facilitating spiritual journeys while maintaining order and safety.

Umrah Visa Application Process for Pakistani Pilgrims

For Pakistani travelers, the resumption of Umrah visas is a welcome development. Pakistan consistently sends one of the largest contingents of pilgrims for both Hajj and Umrah. Therefore, understanding the Umrah visa application process is paramount. While the overall process has become more streamlined with digital advancements, certain requirements remain essential.

Pakistani citizens planning to perform Umrah must ensure they meet the following Umrah visa requirements:

1. Valid Pakistani Passport: The passport must be valid for at least six months from the intended date of entry into Saudi Arabia and should have at least two blank pages for visa stamping.
2. Recent Passport-Sized Photographs: Typically, two recent photographs with a white background are required. Specific dimensions and facial expressions may be mandated, so it's advisable to check the latest guidelines.
3. Confirmed Round-Trip Air Ticket: Proof of a confirmed return flight ticket is mandatory to demonstrate the pilgrim's intention to return to Pakistan.
4. Proof of Accommodation: Confirmed hotel reservations in Mecca and Medina for the entire duration of the stay are essential. This is usually part of the Umrah packages offered by licensed travel agencies.
5. Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel medical insurance is now mandatory. It must cover medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of €30,000 (or its equivalent in other currencies) and be valid across all Schengen states for those who might transit through. While Saudi Arabia is not a Schengen country, the standard comprehensive insurance often covers these aspects.
6. Polio Vaccination Certificate: A valid polio vaccination certificate is a key health requirement for all pilgrims from Pakistan.
7. Online Umrah Visa Application: The application process is predominantly online, facilitated through approved travel agents or directly via the Saudi Ministry's platforms, such as Nusuk.

Important Considerations for Pakistani Pilgrims:

• Choosing Approved Agents: It is crucial for Pakistani pilgrims to book their Umrah packages and apply for their Umrah visas through registered and licensed travel operators approved by the Ministry of Religious Affairs in Pakistan and the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. This helps prevent fraud and ensure the delivery of legitimate services.
• Nusuk Platform: The "Nusuk" platform, launched by Saudi Arabia, is a vital digital tool for pilgrims. It allows for exploring e-visa options, booking verified Umrah services, and managing itineraries. Pakistani pilgrims are encouraged to utilize this platform.
• Processing Time: While the digital Umrah visa application process aims for efficiency, pilgrims should allow sufficient time for processing. Typically, it can range from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the volume of applications and the completeness of the documentation. Applying at least 1-2 months before the intended travel date is highly recommended.
• Cost of Umrah: The Umrah package price for Pakistani pilgrims can vary significantly based on factors such as duration of stay, hotel proximity to the Haram, choice of airline, and inclusions (e.g., meals, guided tours, Ziyarat). Estimated prices for Umrah packages from Pakistan for 2025-2026 can range from PKR 250,000 for budget options to PKR 700,000 or more for luxury Umrah packages.

Table: Estimated Umrah Package Prices from Pakistan (2025-2026)

Note: These are estimated prices and can fluctuate based on season, exchange rates, and specific inclusions in the Umrah packages.

The Importance of Umrah: Beyond the Rituals

Umrah holds profound spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide. While not obligatory like Hajj, it offers an opportunity to visit the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, cleanse sins, and seek closeness to Allah (SWT). The resumption of Umrah visas allows for this continuous spiritual journey throughout the year.

The Umrah pilgrimage involves several key rituals:

• Ihram: The sacred state entered by donning specific white garments.
• Tawaf: Circumambulating the Kaaba seven times.
• Sa'i: Walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa.
• Halq or Taqsir: Shaving or trimming the hair.

Beyond these rituals, the Umrah journey offers a chance for deep reflection, prayer, and connection with fellow Muslims from diverse backgrounds. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's efforts to facilitate this journey for all pilgrims through streamlined processes and enhanced services are commendable.

Future Outlook and Enhanced Pilgrim Experience

The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is continuously working towards improving the pilgrim experience. The learnings from Hajj 2025 will undoubtedly be incorporated into future Umrah seasons and subsequent Hajj pilgrimages. This includes:

• Further Digitalization: Expanding the use of digital platforms for everything from Umrah visa applications to on-ground services, making the journey more seamless and efficient.
• Infrastructure Development: Continued investment in infrastructure to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims, ensuring comfort and safety.
• Health and Safety Enhancements: Adapting to global health guidelines and implementing advanced safety measures to protect the well-being of all visitors.
• Collaboration with International Agents: Strengthening partnerships with international travel agents to ensure quality service delivery and accurate information dissemination to pilgrims.

The resumption of Umrah visas from June 10, 2025, marks a new chapter for millions of Muslims yearning to visit the holy sites. The commitment of Saudi Arabia to host pilgrims from around the globe, while upholding the highest standards of safety and service, reinforces its role as the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques. Pakistani pilgrims, like others, are encouraged to seize this opportunity, planning their sacred journey diligently and with full adherence to the established guidelines, to ensure a blessed and memorable Umrah. The journey to Mecca and Medina awaits, offering spiritual rejuvenation and a profound connection to Islamic heritage.