Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced key deadlines for Umrah visas, entry, and departure as the Kingdom prepares for the upcoming Hajj season.
According to the ministry, the last date for issuing Umrah visas will be the first day of Shawwal. Pilgrims must enter Saudi Arabia by the 15th of Shawwal, while all Umrah visitors are required to leave the Kingdom no later than the first day of Dhul-Qadah.
The announcement came during the ministry’s 17th consecutive virtual meeting with Umrah service providers, where officials stressed strict compliance with regulations governing both Umrah and Hajj operations.
Umrah visas cannot be used for Hajj
Authorities reiterated that pilgrims cannot perform Hajj on an Umrah visa and must obtain a valid Hajj visa to undertake the pilgrimage.
The directive comes as Saudi authorities tighten oversight to ensure an organized transition between the Umrah and Hajj seasons.
Pakistan continues Hajj 2026 preparations
Separately, a spokesperson for Ministry of Religious Affairs said preparations for Hajj 2026 are progressing as planned despite global uncertainties.
Visa issuance for Pakistani pilgrims is underway, while the Hajj flight schedule is expected to be announced after Eid al-Fitr. Arrangements for accommodation and other facilities in Makkah and Madinah are also being finalized.
Pilgrims have been advised to rely only on official sources, including the Pak Hajj App and the ministry’s website, for accurate information.
New Hajj policy increases government quota
Pakistan’s federal cabinet has approved changes under the Hajj Policy 2026, increasing the government scheme’s share of the quota to 70%, while allocating 30% to private tour operators.
In 2025, Pakistan’s total Hajj quota stood at 179,210, evenly split between government and private schemes. However, more than 67,000 پاکستانی pilgrims were unable to perform Hajj last year due to mismanagement.
Officials say the revised policy is aimed at improving transparency, strengthening oversight, and ensuring better facilitation for pilgrims under the government scheme.
