Saudi Arabia’s one-year multiple-entry Umrah visa explained: 90-day stay, eligibility and how to apply
Saudi Arabia has launched a new one-year multiple-entry Umrah visa, allowing eligible Muslims to make multiple pilgrimages without having to apply for a new visa before each visit.The move was launched by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah as part of Vision 2030 to make religious travel easier for pilgrims from around the world, including from India and the Indian diaspora.According to Gulf News, the visa has specific eligibility criteria, application requirements and stay restrictions, which travelers should be aware of before planning their trip.
What is the new multiple entry Umrah visa ?
The new visa is valid for 365 days from the date of issuance and allows multiple entries into Saudi Arabia during this period.However, pilgrims are limited to a maximum cumulative stay of 90 days in the Kingdom across all visits. The 90-day limit does not reset after each trip and any unused days remain valid until the visa expires.This visa is not valid during the annual Hajj season. It is automatically deactivated when pilgrims leave Saudi Arabia and reactivated before their next visit once all required conditions are met.
Who is eligible?
This visa is available to Muslims of all nationalities, including Indian citizens and Indian expatriates residing in countries such as the UAE, UK, US and Canada, provided they meet the specified requirements.Applicants must first purchase an approved Umrah service package before submitting their visa application.
How to apply is as follows
The application process begins through Saudi Arabia’s Nusuk platform:
- Book authorized Umrah packages through Nusuk.
- The package may include visa processing, insurance, accommodation, transportation and other services.
- Authorized Umrah agencies process visa applications.
- Obtain an Umrah permit through the Nusuk app before traveling.
- Travel to Saudi Arabia with approval and comply with applicable regulations on each subsequent visit.
Pilgrims must obtain a new Umrah permit and meet Nusuk requirements before each trip, even if the visa is valid for one year.
Main features
- It is valid for 365 days from the date of issuance.
- Multiple entries into Saudi Arabia are allowed.
- The cumulative length of stay for all visits is a maximum of 90 days.
- Not available during Hajj season.
- An approved Umrah service package and Umrah permit are required before each trip.
- The visa is suspended on departure and reactivated when conditions for the next visit are met.
how much does it cost?
According to Gulf News, the overall cost depends on the package chosen through Nusuk.Standard Umrah Package: Approximately AED 2,000 to AED 2,684 and generally includes accommodation, insurance, transportation and visa-related services.Deluxe package: Approximately AED 5,000 to AED 7,000 depending on the hotel and additional services.Independent Umrah Visa (for UAE residents): Usually AED 300 to AED 600.Actual costs may vary depending on the authority, season of travel, accommodation category and package content.
Required documents
Applicants should generally prepare the following materials:
- Passports are valid for at least six months.
- Recent passport size photo.
- Confirmed return or onward air tickets.
- Hotel or accommodation reservations.
- Travel itinerary.
UAE residents are also required to submit a copy of their Emirates ID and residence visa.
Can I attend Umrah multiple times with one visa?
Yes. The main advantage of the new visa is that pilgrims can attend Umrah multiple times within a one-year validity period without having to obtain a new visa for each trip.However, each visit requires an approved service package, an Umrah permit from Nusuk, and compliance with the latest Saudi regulations.
