Riyadh, Oct 31 (V7N)- Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced a revision to its Umrah visa policy, requiring visa holders to enter the kingdom or register for travel within 30 days of receiving their visa, or risk cancellation.

Saudi media outlet Al Arabiya reported the update on Thursday, citing unnamed sources. Despite the new requirement, the visa validity remains unchanged. Pilgrims will continue to have 90 days from the date of entry to perform Umrah, just as before.

Previously, there was no obligation to enter Saudi Arabia within a month of receiving the visa. The new rule mainly emphasizes this time limit, aiming to ensure better organization of pilgrims.

The policy is expected to be officially implemented from next week, according to sources. Ahmed Bajaifar, advisor to the Saudi National Committee for Umrah and Tourism, said the revision is part of preparations to accommodate a significant increase in pilgrims coming for Umrah in the future.

END/SMA/AJ