Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah reaffirmed its commitment to easing procedures for international pilgrims performing Umrah, with no new conditions imposed on visitors from abroad, a senior official told Asharq Al-Awsat.
Abdulmohsen Alsalem, the ministry’s undersecretary for Umrah affairs, said the government is shifting its focus inward, prioritizing regulatory oversight of more than 270 licensed Umrah companies. These firms are monitored through field inspection teams and face a range of penalties for violations, from fines and temporary suspension to full revocation of licenses.
The ministry's operational strategy for the Umrah season is grounded in the kingdom's overarching vision to enhance pilgrim experience, supported by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Central to this strategy is improving service quality, ensuring safety, and elevating the spiritual and cultural value of the pilgrimage.
Quality Standards and Contract Transparency
A cornerstone of the new approach is stricter enforcement of service standards, particularly for local operators. Companies are now required to formalize housing contracts as part of efforts to safeguard pilgrims and raise accountability. These measures are aimed at delivering a seamless and reliable pilgrimage experience, backed by a robust regulatory framework.
“The ministry aims to enhance the spiritual impact of Umrah on individuals, especially for international pilgrims who often view the journey as a profound personal transformation,” Alsalem said. “We’re offering a holistic experience that goes beyond rituals, incorporating visits to historic and cultural sites within a well-organized environment.”
No Additional Conditions for Foreign Pilgrims
Alsalem clarified that while new regulatory requirements target service providers, there are no new restrictions for Umrah pilgrims from abroad. “On the contrary, we continue to simplify visa processes and enhance every stage of the journey—from the visa application to the moment pilgrims leave the kingdom,” he said.
Umrah visas can be obtained through accredited agencies or directly via the official Nusuk platform (www.nusuk.sa), offering flexible options that include accommodation, transport, and guidance services. The direct visa route, introduced under specific regulations, removes the need for intermediaries.
Private Sector Role and Global Outreach
Alsalem stressed the pivotal role of the private sector in delivering high-quality services and fostering innovation. The ministry supervises a network of over 270 companies, working closely with the Ministry of Tourism to ensure compliance with quality and safety benchmarks.
“Umrah is not just a religious journey, it’s a global opportunity for civilizational and cultural engagement,” Alsalem said. “With pilgrims arriving from over 160 countries, managing this influx becomes a responsibility of international dimensions. Our initiatives are guided by performance indicators that focus on increasing pilgrim numbers and enriching their experience.”
Continuous Monitoring and Accountability
The ministry maintains constant oversight of service providers, conducting regular inspections to ensure adherence to standards. Companies found in violation face graduated penalties depending on the severity and recurrence of the offense.
Thanks to ongoing improvements in visa and travel services, Umrah is no longer limited to traditional peak seasons. “We’re seeing a year-round distribution of pilgrim traffic,” Alsalem said, citing high-demand periods such as the Gregorian year-end, Rabi’ Al-Awwal, and Ramadan.
He added that this shift has helped position Makkah among the top five global cities in terms of international arrivals. The ministry’s integrated operational plan—executed under the supervision of senior committees and governing councils—aims to ensure maximum comfort, safety, and service excellence for pilgrims throughout the year.
