Saudi Arabia: New visa options to simplify Umrah access

Saudi Arabia introduces new visa options for Umrah pilgrims from GCC nations, allowing travel with transit and tourist visas. The initiative, part of Saudi’s Vision 2030, aims to enhance accessibility and the religious tourism experience while maintaining streamlined

As per the latest reports, Umrah is all set to become simpler for citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, thanks to the introduction of new visa options by Saudi Arabia. Residents of the GCC will now be able to travel with transit and tourist visas in addition to the conventional Umrah visa. This initiative is in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 to increase accessibility and the religious tourism experience.

New visa options for Umrah pilgrims

With the recently implemented transit visa, visitors can remain in Saudi Arabia for a maximum of 96 hours. Because they can now conduct Umrah during their stopover, this is especially advantageous for travellers who have layovers in the Kingdom. GCC citizens can visit the holy sites in a quick and affordable manner by obtaining a transit visa when they book flights with Saudi-based airlines.

GCC citizens can apply for a Saudi tourist visa in addition to a transit visa, which allows them to visit the nation’s many historical and cultural landmarks while doing Umrah. For individuals who are organising their pilgrimage, this visa is easily accessible online via official Saudi platforms.

How to apply for a transit visa for Umrah

Applying for a transit visa is easy for those who choose to do so, find out:

1. Book a flight: When booking a flight on a Saudi carrier, passengers can apply for a transit visa.
2. Submit the Application: The airline’s portal is used to submit the online visa request.
3. Get the visa: Travellers who are accepted are given an electronic visa that allows them to stay for a maximum of four days.

Although the new visa alternatives make it easier to enter Makkah, reservations are still needed to visit the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina for Al Rawdah Al Sharif. To guarantee a seamless experience, pilgrims must reserve their trip via the Nusuk app in advance

Vision 2030 and the future of religious tourism

As per the reports, Saudi Arabia has been actively working to improve Umrah accessibility in line with its Vision 2030 goals. It is introducing multiple visa options, with the aim to accommodate a larger number of pilgrims and enhance their experience through streamlined procedures and digital booking platforms. These efforts highlight Saudi Arabia’s commitment to expand religious tourism while maintaining high service standards. However, Pilgrims are advised to check visa requirements and plan their visits in advance for a seamless spiritual journey.

Originally Published at TIMESOFINDIA