Saudi Arabia Unveils Comprehensive Umrah Calendar for 2025–26
The ministry mandates that foreign agents finalize service contracts with Saudi Umrah firms by 27 May 2025 (29 Dhul Qadah 1446). Visa issuance will commence a day before pilgrim arrivals, while qualification requests for external agents must conclude by 20 January 2026 (1 Sha'ban 1447). Authorities emphasize strict adherence to deadlines, including final visa issuance by 20 March 2026 (1 Shawwal 1447) and pilgrim departures by 18 April 2026 (1 Dhul Qadah 1447).
وزارة الحج والعمرة تعلن عن تقويم موسم العمرة لعام 1447هـ في إطار الاستعداد لخدمة المعتمرين وزوار المسجد النبوي الشريف القادمين من خارج المملكة بتأشيرات العمرة.#يسر_وطمأنينة#لا_حج_بلا_تصريح pic.twitter.com/pLGkganj8N
— وزارة الحج والعمرة (@HajMinistry) May 9, 2025 Digital Transformation Elevates Pilgrim Experience
Saudi Arabia launched early preparations on 25 March 2025, introducing the 'Nusuk' platform and 'Umrah Path' system to modernize pilgrim management. These tools streamline agent accreditation, service bookings, and real-time updates, reflecting the Kingdom's Vision 2030 goals for tourism excellence. During the 2025 Hajj and Umrah Services Forum, global stakeholders endorsed these innovations, highlighting improved transparency and operational efficiency.
The ministry's calendar prioritizes punctual arrivals and departures, requiring pilgrims to enter Saudi Arabia by 3 April 2026 (15 Shawwal 1447). Recent infrastructure expansions, including upgraded airports and crowd management systems in Makkah and Madinah, further support the influx. Officials project a 15% rise in pilgrims compared to 2024–25, bolstered by extended e-visa access and multilingual support services. Vision 2030 Drives Pilgrim-Centric Reforms
Saudi Arabia continues to enhance pilgrim hospitality under Vision 2030, investing $20 billion in holy site expansions and smart technologies. Minister Tawfiq Al-Rabiah stated, 'Our reforms prioritize pilgrim comfort, safety, and spiritual fulfillment.' The Nusuk app, now offering health monitoring and prayer-time alerts, exemplifies this commitment.
For more information and updates, pilgrims are encouraged to visit the Ministry's website and utilize the digital platforms provided. These resources will offer the latest news, guidelines, and support to ensure a seamless and enriching Umrah experience.
By adhering to the outlined schedule and utilizing the available digital tools, pilgrims can look forward to a well-organized and spiritually fulfilling journey to the holy sites of Saudi Arabia.
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