Saudi Arabia has reduced the entry validity period for Umrah visas from three months to one month, tightening travel timelines ahead of the 2026 Hajj season. The new 30-day entry window was reflected in visas issued on March 1.
Under the revised rule, pilgrims must enter the Kingdom within 30 days of visa issuance or risk automatic cancellation, although the permitted duration of stay after arrival remains unchanged.
The move is part of broader measures to improve crowd management, prevent overstays, and regulate pilgrim flow as Hajj preparations intensify. Travel operators and intending pilgrims are advised to align visa processing closely with confirmed travel arrangements.
Hajj Gazette
