Makkah: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has officially resumed the issuance of Umrah visas starting Tuesday, June 10, just a day after the successful conclusion of the Haj 1446 AH / 2025 season, reported the Siasat.
According to the Ministry of Haj and Umrah, the first batch of international pilgrims is expected to arrive in the Kingdom on Wednesday, June 11. In preparation for this, the ministry had earlier directed Umrah companies and overseas travel agencies to complete all service agreements by May 27 (29 Dhul Qadah 1446 AH).
Saudi Arabia usually halts Umrah visa processing weeks before the annual Haj pilgrimage to ensure proper organization and management. Now, with Haj pilgrims completing their farewell tawaf and many heading toward Madinah, the Umrah season for the year 1447 AH is officially underway.
In the first quarter of 2025 alone, over 6.5 million international pilgrims performed Umrah, marking an 11% increase compared to the same period in 2024.
Umrah is a recommended but non-mandatory pilgrimage that can be performed throughout the year, unlike Haj, which is compulsory once in a lifetime for eligible Muslims and takes place during specific days of Dhul Hijjah.
The Grand Mosque in Makkah is once again witnessing crowds of white-clad worshippers performing the sacred rituals around the Kaaba.
