Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has detailed its one-year, multiple-entry visa specifically designed for Umrah pilgrims and tourists. This visa allows eligible individuals to perform the Umrah pilgrimage and engage in tourism activities, with a maximum stay of 90 days per visit within its one-year validity period. The initiative is part of broader efforts to facilitate access to the holy sites and enhance the visitor experience in line with Saudi Vision 2030.

The new visa framework permits multiple entries into Saudi Arabia over a 365-day period from the date of issuance. Each entry under this visa type grants the holder a stay of up to three months. This flexibility is intended to accommodate individuals who wish to perform Umrah more than once a year or combine their pilgrimage with exploring other parts of the Kingdom. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has affirmed that this visa aims to simplify travel procedures for international visitors.

Key features and eligibility criteria for the one-year multiple-entry Umrah visa include:

  • Validity: The visa remains valid for one full year from its issuance date.
  • Entry Type: It permits multiple entries into Saudi Arabia within the year.
  • Maximum Stay: Each individual visit under this visa is capped at 90 days.
  • Purpose: Holders can perform Umrah, visit other cities, attend events, and participate in tourism activities.
  • Eligibility: The visa is typically available to citizens from countries eligible for the Saudi tourist eVisa, which includes approximately 49 nations, alongside residents of the United States, the United Kingdom, and Schengen Area countries. Specific nationality requirements should be verified through official Saudi government channels.

The application process for the one-year multiple-entry Umrah visa has been streamlined to enhance accessibility for international travelers. Applicants can apply through several channels:

  • Official eVisa Portal: The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs provides an online platform for direct applications.
  • Authorized Travel Agencies: Accredited travel agencies worldwide can assist with the visa application process.
  • Selected Airlines: Certain national and international airlines offer visa facilitation services as part of their travel packages.

Applicants are generally required to provide a valid passport, a recent photograph, proof of accommodation and flight bookings, and mandatory medical insurance covering the duration of their stay in Saudi Arabia. The visa fee varies based on nationality and processing channels, typically including the cost of mandatory insurance.

This visa reform is a component of Saudi Arabia’s strategic objectives under Vision 2030, which includes significantly increasing the number of Umrah pilgrims to 30 million annually. By easing visa restrictions and offering more flexible entry options, the Kingdom aims to attract a greater number of international visitors, boost its tourism sector, and diversify its economy beyond oil. The government continues to invest in infrastructure and services to accommodate the projected growth in religious and leisure tourism.