Saudi Arabia introduces one-year multiple-entry Umrah visa

The Saudi Ministry of Haj and Umrah on Monday launched a multiple-entry Umrah visa valid for 365 days from the date of issuance, allowing beneficiaries to enter the Kingdom multiple times with a cumulative stay of up to 90 days, state-run Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported.

The move aligned with Saudi Vision 2030 and the Pilgrim Experience Program's goals of facilitating the arrival of pilgrims, enriching their experience, and improving service delivery and efficiency.

According to the SPA, "each visit would require purchasing a service package from an approved provider on the Nusuk platform, with the package duration not exceeding the remaining days available on the visa. Entry is also contingent on issuing an Umrah permit via the Nusuk application before arrival."

It added, however, that the visa would be deactivated after each departure and reactivated upon meeting regulatory requirements for the next visit.

"It will not be activated during the Hajj season, from the first of Zilqad to the 13th of Zilhajj," read the statement.

The ministry affirmed that the visa enhances flexibility in planning visits and supports the integration of digital and operational services throughout the pilgrim's journey.
 

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 aims to reduce the Kingdom’s reliance on oil and boost sectors such as health, education, infrastructure, recreation, and tourism. 

The Vision 2030 is an all-inclusive document, which follows principles of sustainable development and caters to future needs. It has been built on eight themes/ pillars which include healthcare, living standards, sustainability of resources, social development, government efficiency, labour market, enabling private sector, tourism and national heritage.

Saudi Arabia has identified diversification of the economy as a leading factor to achieve the goal. The government is endeavouring to give a boost to non-oil sectors and exports.

The initiative has created an increasing demand for skilled workers, which Pakistan hopes to meet.