Updated July 2023
In a significant move, Saudi Arabia has introduced a groundbreaking initiative, allowing its citizens to extend personal visit visas to their Muslim friends from abroad for performing Umrah in the Kingdom. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced that these personal visit visas available online, can be either single entry or multiple entry.
Explore Saudi Arabia: A Tourist-Friendly Umrah Experience
Apart from the sacred Umrah rituals at the revered Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Prophet's Mosque in Madinah, visitors under this program will have the opportunity to explore various tourism destinations within the Kingdom. This measure is aimed at promoting cultural exchange and enhancing Saudi Arabia's reputation as a significant tourist destination.
Convenient Visa Application Process for Umrah and Tourism
Applications for the personal visit visa can be conveniently made through Travelers holding a multiple entry visa can stay in the Kingdom for a maximum of 90 days with each visit, and the visa itself remains valid for a year, while a single entry visa is valid for 90 days.
Strategic Timing for Umrah Season: Ensuring Smooth Pilgrim Flow
The initiation of this program coincides with the commencement of the Umrah season, as announced by the Presidency of the Two Holy Mosques, ensuring a smooth flow of pilgrims. The strategic timing allows for ample time for Hajj pilgrims to return home before the Umrah season begins, reducing congestion in the holy places and airports.
This landmark decision is part of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 strategic plan, which aims to diversify the country's economy away from its dependence on oil exports. The plan includes the development of the tourism sector to welcome an ambitious goal of 100 million visitors by 2030. In line with this vision, the tourism industry is expected to generate over 1 million jobs for the nation's growing workforce, driving economic growth.
Saudi Vision 2030: Empowering the Tourism Industry
The cultural significance of Makkah and Madinah as spiritual centers for Muslims worldwide is also acknowledged in the plan. Consequently, the Kingdom anticipates a substantial surge in spiritual tourism, with the number of pilgrims expected to reach 30 million by 2030.
As Saudi Arabia opens up its historical and cultural sites, travelers from around the globe are invited to experience the nation's rich heritage and hospitality. This progressive step fosters deeper connections between people of different nations and faiths, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation.
the extension of personal visit visas for Umrah underscores Saudi Arabia's commitment to fostering tourism and cultural exchange, ultimately enriching the nation's global standing and inviting the world to explore its vast offerings.
