RIYADH — The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announced that residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries can now perform Umrah using transit and tourist visas, in addition to the traditional Umrah visa.
New Visa Options for GCC Residents
Under the new guidelines, GCC residents can choose from three visa types to perform Umrah:
- Umrah Visa: Specifically designed for pilgrimage purposes.
- Transit Visa: Allows a 96-hour stay, ideal for short visits.
- Tourist Visa: Valid for up to 90 days, suitable for extended stays.
The ministry also reminded pilgrims that visiting Al-Rawdah Al-Sharif, the revered area in the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah, requires advance booking through the Nusuk application.
The new visa options are expected to significantly ease travel for GCC residents, who previously relied solely on Umrah visas. By allowing transit and tourist visas, the ministry aims to accommodate diverse schedules and preferences, particularly for those combining Umrah with tourism or business trips.
Pilgrims are advised to check visa requirements and download the Nusuk app before traveling. The ministry also reiterated its commitment to providing top-tier services, including multilingual support and enhanced crowd management at holy sites.
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