As the current annual Umrah season is nearing its concluding stage, Saudi Arabia’s Hajj and Umrah Ministry has announced the final deadline for issuing visas, allowing pilgrims to enter and stay in the kingdom. The ministry also reminded companies and pilgrims that performing Hajj requires a specific Hajj visa and cannot be done using the Umrah visa. The ministry clarified that the last date for issuing Umrah visas for the current season will be the first date of Shawwal. Pilgrims holding Umrah visas will be allowed to enter Saudi Arabia until Shawwal 15, while the last date of their stay in the kingdom will be the first of Dhul Qada. After this date, Umrah pilgrims are expected to have completed their journeys and left the country. The announcement was made during the 17th periodic meeting organized by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah with Saudi Umrah companies, which took place virtually on Saturday. During the session, officials highlighted the need for strict compliance with the rules governing the upcoming Hajj season. The ministry reiterated that Hajj rituals should be performed only with a valid Hajj visa, stressing that Umrah visas cannot be used for pilgrimage. Speaking during the meeting, Hajj and Umrah Minister Dr Tawfiq Al-Rabiah praised Umrah companies for their cooperation and efforts during the Ramadan period. He acknowledged their role in serving the pilgrims, addressing matters involving stranded Umrah pilgrims and helping facilitate their return journey to their home destinations. The Minister also stressed the importance of continuing to follow all operational guidelines related to the Umrah season. This includes ensuring orderly arrival schedules for pilgrims at airports and regularly updating departure information of pilgrims through the Nusk Masar platform, which is used to manage travel and service data for visitors. Dr. Al-Rabiah also invited Umrah companies to participate in the third edition of the Umrah and Visit Forum 2026, which aims to bring together industry partners and organizations involved in pilgrimage services. During the meeting, the officials reviewed the key indicators of the current Umrah season and highlighted the achievements recorded so far. The discussions also touched upon preparations for the upcoming Umrah and Visit Forum, including its role in strengthening partnerships, exchanging expertise among service providers and presenting opportunities for improving services offered to pilgrims and visitors. This meeting is part of the regular consultation organized by the Ministry of Haj and Umrah with Umrah companies. These sessions aim to strengthen coordination with sector partners, monitor service development and ensure that pilgrims are better supported during their journey. The initiative also aligns with the broader goals of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which seeks to enhance the overall experience of Umrah pilgrims and visitors traveling to the kingdom.