DUBAI: Saudi Arabia has announced firm deadlines for Umrah pilgrims entering and exiting the Kingdom in the lead-up to Hajj 2025, scheduled for June 4 to 9.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah confirmed that April 13 (Shawwal 15) is the final date for entry of Umrah performers, with April 29 (Dhul-Qa'dah 1) marking the deadline for their departure. The new guidelines are part of broader efforts to regulate the influx of pilgrims and prevent unauthorised participation in the upcoming Hajj season.
The ministry has reiterated that anyone overstaying beyond the designated exit date will face statutory penalties. Institutions and Umrah operators found to be non-compliant – especially those failing to report delayed departures – may be fined up to SAR100,000 and subjected to legal measures.
The announcement forms part of a sweeping logistical overhaul meant to ensure order, safety, and proper management during the peak pilgrimage period.
Visa & permit requirements
All Umrah pilgrims are required to enter Saudi Arabia under a valid Umrah visa and must obtain an official permit for the pilgrimage through the Nusuk platform. In addition to visa compliance, selecting a precise time slot for Umrah rituals is mandatory, with only one time slot permitted per pilgrim each day.
Pilgrims must also ensure that they use only licensed Umrah service providers recognised by the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments. Any individual, organiser, or office violating this requirement may face penalties of up to Dh50,000. The Ministry urged all stakeholders to strictly adhere to the guidelines to avoid punitive actions and maintain the sanctity of the pilgrimage process.
Ban on short-term visas
In a parallel move, Saudi authorities have also announced a suspension of short-term visa issuance for citizens of 14 countries, including India, Pakistan, Indonesia, Egypt, and Nigeria. The suspension will take effect from April 13 and encompasses business visit visas, tourist e-visas, and family visit visas – both single and multiple-entry categories.
While individuals from these countries holding valid visas may enter before April 13, they must depart no later than April 29. Failure to comply could lead to a five-year entry ban. The measure follows concerns about non-Hajj visa holders attempting to perform the pilgrimage without registration, exacerbating overcrowding and straining infrastructure.
During Hajj 2024, over 1,200 unregistered pilgrims reportedly died due to extreme heat and lack of access to essential services. Authorities have cited this tragedy as a key factor behind the stricter visa enforcement this year.
The ministry clarified that the visa moratorium is not politically motivated and does not apply to Saudi residents, those travelling with Hajj-specific visas, or diplomatic personnel. Instead, the action is aimed at preventing misuse of tourism and business visas for unauthorised pilgrimage, which often results in serious logistical and safety challenges.
Unregistered pilgrims typically lack access to official accommodation, healthcare, and transportation – putting both themselves and the broader pilgrim population at risk. By limiting visa issuance, Saudi Arabia seeks to uphold the integrity of the Hajj quota system and ensure that those performing the pilgrimage are properly documented and supported.