Saudi Arabia Eases Umrah Access for GCC Citizens and Residents

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has introduced new measures allowing citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to perform Umrah year-round. Pilgrims can now enter the Kingdom through any of its land, air, or sea entry points. Umrah permits can be easily obtained via the official Nusuk mobile application.

This move is part of a broader initiative by the Kingdom to simplify pilgrimage procedures and enhance the experience for visitors.

Expanded Access for GCC Residents

In addition to citizens, residents of GCC countries are now eligible to perform Umrah using various types of visas, such as:

• Umrah visas available through the official portal: nusuk.sa
• Transit visas, issued in collaboration with airlines like Saudi Airlines and Flynas: saudia.com and flynas.com
• Tourist visas, obtainable via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs portal: ksavisa.sa

Regardless of visa type, all pilgrims—citizens and residents alike—must secure a permit through the Nusuk app to perform Umrah and to visit Rawdah Al Sharifah, the revered chamber in the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah.

Key Dates for the Umrah Season

The Ministry resumed issuing Umrah visas to international pilgrims on June 10, while permits through the Nusuk platform became available on June 11.

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Important calendar deadlines include:

• Start of Shaaban (Islamic month) – Final date for applying to qualify external agents handling Umrah arrangements
• First of Shawwal – Final day to issue Umrah visas
• 15th of Shawwal – Deadline for pilgrims to enter the Kingdom
• First of Dhul Qi’dah – Final date for pilgrims to leave Saudi Arabia

These measures are part of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing strategy to modernize and manage religious tourism efficiently while maintaining the sanctity and order of the pilgrimage process.