RIYADH: The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has reduced the validity of Umrah visas to one month instead of three months from the date of issuance.
According to a report on Al Arabiya.net, the new rule will come into force next week. The new policy provides for the cancellation of Umrah visas if the pilgrim fails to enter Saudi Arabia within a period of 30 days after issuance.
However, the period of stay after arrival is still maintained at up to three months upon entering the kingdom.
Officials said the change was to avoid overcrowding in Makkah and Madina, especially during the cooler months. Ahmed Bajafar, adviser to the National Committee for Umrah and Visit, said the move will regulate the flow of pilgrims better.
In October, the Saudi government enforced stricter Umrah regulations, which include forcing pilgrims to pre-book their accommodation and transport arrangements beforehand, which would be checked upon arrival on the Nusuk or Masar platforms.
The kingdom has explained that all types of visa holders are allowed to perform Umrah during their stay period.
