Latest news with #evisa
Khaleej Times
2 days ago
- Khaleej Times
Saudi Arabia resumes e-visa services for visitors after Hajj concludes
Saudi Arabia has now resumed e-visa applications, the country's tourism authority has said. The e-visa process resumed on June 10, which means travelers from eligible countries can apply online with ease, making it simpler to plan a trip to Saudi this summer. Those holding valid Schengen, UK, or US visit visas — or who are residents of the EU, UK, or US - are also eligible for visa-on-arrival at Saudi entry points. As summer unfolds across Saudi, the country is alive with cultural festivals, coastal escapes, and international headline events like the Esports World Cup. Whether you're looking to explore ancient heritage sites, cool off in the mountains, or catch the global gaming action in Riyadh, this could be one of the most exciting times to visit the country. Umrah visas resume As Muslim pilgrims wrapped up days of worshipping and praying during Hajj in the holy sites of Makkah, Saudi authorities announced on Monday the resumption of issuing Umrah visas starting Tuesday, June 10. Over 1.6 million Muslims from more than 150 nations visited Makkah during the annual Islamic pilgrimage, authorities said earlier. The pilgrims performed the final leg of the highly significant religious journey by circling the Kaaba in a what is called the "farewell tawaf". It was also revealed that restrictions which were put in place for entering Makkah during the Hajj season were to be lifted starting Wednesday, June 11. Visa issues ahead of Hajj season In April 2025, ahead of the Hajj season, travelers were facing issues with their visa applications to Saudi Arabia. According to some travel operators, visa issuance was suspended in preparation for the Hajj season. Authorities in Saudi Arabia had announced that Umrah pilgrims could last enter the country on April 13. Umrah operators had said they were unable to get any categories of visas issued whether they are multi-entry, single-entry, Umrah, or family visit. Saudi Arabia
Gulf Business
2 days ago
- Gulf Business
Saudi e-visas resume: What eligible countries need to know
Saudi Arabia has announced the resumption of e-visa applications starting June 10, streamlining travel for international visitors just in time for the summer season. Eligible travelers can now apply online, making it easier than ever to plan trips to the country. In addition to e-visas, visitors holding valid Schengen, UK, or US visit visas—or those who are residents of the EU, UK, or US—will continue to qualify for visas on arrival at Saudi entry points. Vibrant summer calendar The announcement comes as Saudi Arabia launches a vibrant summer calendar, featuring cultural festivals, beachside escapes, mountain retreats, and headline events such as the Esports World Cup in Riyadh. From exploring ancient heritage sites to experiencing cutting-edge global gaming, the country offers a diverse and exciting travel experience. Start of the new Umrah season Adding to the influx of travelers, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has The ministry emphasised that early coordination with relevant authorities has ensured operational readiness for the season, including enhanced digital services and multilingual support. The platform allows users to obtain permits and access services designed to improve the Umrah journey. Saudi officials reiterated their commitment to maintaining high standards of safety, comfort, and efficiency for all visitors, as the country positions itself as a leading destination for both leisure and religious travel.
