Extending the Umrah Visa Period: Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah’s 1447 AH Announcement and New Visa Duration Details

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is enacting significant changes to services provided for those undertaking the Umrah pilgrimage. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has launched updated Umrah regulations, representing a holistic strategy to improve the entire pilgrimage journey. These extensive guidelines intend to redefine the Umrah experience through exceptional service and heightened safety, as officially announced by governing authorities.

A strategic Overhaul of Umrah Services

The new Umrah regulations signify a fundamental shift in how Saudi Arabia views and supports the guests of God. This conversion centres around several key areas:

• Enhanced Service Delivery: The Ministry is committed to providing a markedly improved level of care and comfort, coupled with complete transparency to instill confidence in pilgrims.
• Elevated Safety Protocols: Protecting the health and well-being of pilgrims is paramount.The new controls incorporate the latest international safety standards throughout all holy sites and related facilities.
• elimination of Unregulated Practices: Strict oversight mechanisms are being implemented to combat exploitative pricing and substandard services.
• Streamlined Processes: The new regulations are designed to simplify the logistical aspects of Umrah, allowing pilgrims to concentrate on the spiritual significance of their journey.

Prohibited Items and Security Measures

The updated Umrah regulations clearly define a list of prohibited items, ensuring the security of all involved. These include:

• All types of narcotic substances and stimulants, including medications without proper authorization.
• Weapons of any kind and sharp objects.
• Media and clothing that contravene Islamic law.
• religious literature that does not align with the kingdom’s approved curriculum.
• Live animals without official permission.
• Foodstuffs not meeting Saudi health standards.

Transparency in Umrah Program Pricing

The regulations emphasize fair and clear pricing for Umrah programs, protecting the rights of pilgrims. The following table provides a general overview of approximate price ranges and expected services:

Program Type	Approximate Price Range (Egyptian Pounds)	Expected Services
Economic Programs	starting from 30,000	Accommodation in suitable hotels in moderate locations near the Two Holy Mosques
Four-Star Programs	starting from 45,000	Accommodation in excellent hotels in nearby locations
Luxury Programs	60,000 and above	Accommodation in five-star hotels in prime locations

Companies found to be violating pricing standards will face significant penalties, perhaps including substantial fines and revocation of their licenses.

Focus on Quality Accommodation

The Umrah regulations prioritize agreeable and conveniently located accommodation near the Two Holy Mosques. Key elements include:

• Careful selection of accommodation locations based on proximity to the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s mosque.
• Mandatory compliance with official classifications and licensing requirements from the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
• Continuous monitoring of service providers to guarantee adherence to quality standards.

Essential Travel Documents

The new controls standardize basic travel requirements for Umrah pilgrims:

• A valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity.
• compliance with all health requirements stipulated by Saudi authorities.
• A valid Umrah visa obtained through authorized channels.

The Evolving Landscape of Religious Tourism

Saudi Arabia’s ongoing investment in infrastructure and service improvements reflects a broader trend in religious tourism globally. According to a recent report by Allied Market Research, the global religious tourism market is projected to reach $816.7 billion by 2030, driven by increasing disposable incomes and a growing desire for spiritual experiences. This necessitates a continuous focus on safety, accessibility, and cultural sensitivity.

Did You Know? The Saudi government has invested billions of dollars in expanding the Grand Mosque in Mecca, increasing its capacity to accommodate a growing number of pilgrims.

Frequently Asked Questions about Umrah Regulations

• Q: Does an Umrah visa permit sightseeing in Saudi Arabia?

  A: yes, the visa generally allows visits to most public places during its validity.

• Q: When can umrah be performed under the new regulations?

  A: Umrah can be performed throughout the Islamic Hijri year, except during periods specified by the authorities.

• Q: What steps are being taken to protect pilgrims from price gouging?

  A: The regulations include strict pricing standards and penalties for companies that exploit pilgrims.

• Q: What types of accommodation are available for Umrah pilgrims?

  A: Accommodation options range from economic to luxury, with varying price points and service levels.

• Q: What are the key documents needed to apply for an Umrah Visa?

  A: A valid passport,health requirements from Saudi authorities,and a visa issued through approved offices are key requirements.

These Umrah regulations represent a historic step forward in serving the guests of God and demonstrate the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s unwavering commitment to providing the best possible experience for Umrah pilgrims, while safeguarding the spiritual significance of this sacred ritual.

What aspects of these new regulations do you think will have the biggest positive impact on pilgrims? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

What are the approximate costs associated with a 60-day and 90-day Umrah visa extension, according to the 1447 AH policy?

Extending the Umrah Visa Period: Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah’s 1447 AH Declaration and New Visa duration Details

Understanding the 1447 AH Umrah Visa Extension Policy

In 1447 AH (corresponding to 2024/2025 Gregorian calendar), the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announced notable changes regarding Umrah visa extension policies. These updates were designed to provide greater adaptability for pilgrims and facilitate a more pleasant and spiritually fulfilling experiance. This article details the specifics of the policy, eligibility criteria, and practical steps for extending your Umrah visa. We’ll cover everything from the initial visa duration to the available extension periods and associated costs. Understanding these changes is crucial for anyone planning an Umrah pilgrimage or currently in Saudi Arabia on an Umrah visa.

Initial Visa Duration & Standard Extension Options

Traditionally, an Umrah visa granted a stay of 30 days.Though, the 1447 AH announcement introduced more nuanced options.

* Standard 30-Day Visa: remains available for those planning a shorter pilgrimage.

* 60-Day Visa: A popular option, offering more time for worship and exploration.

* 90-Day Visa: Introduced to cater to pilgrims wishing to spend an extended period in the Holy Cities.

The key change lies in the ease of extending these visas while in Saudi Arabia. Previously, extensions were frequently enough complex and required leaving the country.The new policy streamlined the process.

How to Extend Your Umrah Visa: A Step-by-Step Guide

Extending your Umrah visa is now primarily done through digital platforms. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

1. Access the Ministry Platform: Pilgrims must use the official Ministry of Hajj and Umrah website or the Saudi Visa Bio mobile application. (Ensure you download the official app from a trusted source).
2. Eligibility Check: The system will verify your eligibility based on your visa type, nationality, and remaining visa validity.
3. Payment of Extension Fee: An extension fee is required, the amount varying based on the duration of the extension. (See “Umrah Visa Extension Costs” below).Payment is typically made online via credit/debit card.
4. Visa Extension Approval: Upon prosperous payment, the system processes the extension request. Approval is usually granted within 24-72 hours.
5. download Extended Visa: Once approved, you can download the updated Umrah visa from the platform. It’s crucial to keep a digital and printed copy of this extended visa with you at all times.

Umrah Visa Extension Costs (1447 AH)

the cost of extending your Umrah visa depends on the length of the extension requested. While fees are subject to change, the following provides a general guideline as of late 2025:

* 30-Day Extension: Approximately 1000 SAR (Saudi Riyal).

* 60-Day Extension: approximately 2000 SAR.

* 90-Day Extension: Approximately 3000 SAR.

These fees do not include any service charges levied by travel agencies assisting with the extension process. Always confirm the latest fee structure on the official Ministry of Hajj and Umrah website. Consider these costs when budgeting for your Umrah trip.

Vital Considerations & Potential restrictions

While the extension process is now simpler, certain conditions apply:

* No Overstay: Overstaying your visa, even by a single day, can result in hefty fines, imprisonment, and a ban from re-entering Saudi Arabia.

* Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the extended visa’s expiry date.

* Criminal Record: Individuals with a criminal record may face difficulties in obtaining a visa extension.

* Health Requirements: Ensure you meet all health requirements stipulated by the Saudi government, including any necessary vaccinations.

* Travel Agent Assistance: While not mandatory, using a reputable travel agent specializing in Umrah packages can simplify the extension process, especially for those unfamiliar with the online platforms.

Benefits of Extending Your Umrah Visa

Extending your Umrah visa offers several advantages:

*