There is good news for GCC citizens and residents who want to perform Umrah. Saudi Arabia has declared that the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is now able to perform the pilgrimage at any time of the year. Do you know the best part? There are no restrictions on performing the Umrah for GCC citizens and residents.
This move is expected to make it easier for millions of Muslims residing in the region. Today, we will talk about this decision and how you can perform Umrah now. Keep reading to know everything about this decision.
Key Highlights of the Announcement of Umrah for the GCC Citizens and Residents
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in Saudi Arabia has declared that citizens of all Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries can now perform Umrah at any time of the year. Moreover, the new regulation applies to all foreigners and citizens living in the GCC nations, like the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, the entry for Umrah is acceptable through land, air, or sea.
The recent decision is not only a part of a policy change to allow you access to more freedom in Umrah. However, the decision shows the broader commitment of Saudi Arabia to enhance the pilgrimage experience. In addition, the kingdom continues to streamline the religious travel process. It makes it easier for all Muslims around the region to visit the holy site.
Expanded Access: GCC Residents Can Now Perform Umrah with Multiple Visa Options
As we told you before, Saudi Arabia has extended eligibility to residents of the GCC nations using multiple types of visas, besides citizens. This step allows many muslims to perform Umrah more conveniently. It reflects the dedication of the kingdom to streamline the spiritual journey.
As a resident, you can choose from many visas to perform Umrah. Below is the list of visas:
- You can choose the Umrah visa via Nusuk.sa.
- You can also get the transit visa in collaboration with Saudi Airline and Flynas to perform it.
- You can also obtain the tourist visa through the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs via Ksavisa.sa.
This multi-visa approach will provide you with more flexibility to plan your visit and a smoother Umrah experience.
Mandatory Permits via Nusuk App for Holy Site Access
Saudi Arabia resumed issuing Umrah visas for international pilgrims on 10 June 2025. Moreover, all pilgrims, including residents or citizens, are required to obtain a permit through the Nusuk app before visiting the religious site. In addition, the permit will also allow you to perform prayers in the Rawdah Al Sharifah. It is a sacred chamber in the Prophet’s mosque in Madina.
The permit system is developed to manage crowds and maintain a peaceful environment for worshippers. Moreover, you can experience these holy places with greater comfort and ease. The ministry began issuing the Nusuk Umrah permit on June 11.
Key Dates in the Umrah Season Calendar
As we told you before, Saudi Arabia has declared that Umrah for GCC citizens and residents is allowed to do it at any time of the year. Still, the ministry has mentioned the important deadlines for pilgrims to plan and coordinate their journey effectively.
The ministry announced that it will cease accepting new applications from external Umrah agents during the upcoming Umrah season. Furthermore, it will approve and record the contract with the Umrah companies or agents by the first day of Shaaban next year.
The ministry also clarified that the first day of Shawwal is going to be the final date for issuing the Umrah visas. Moreover, the 15th day of the same month will be the final day to visit the holy place. However, you have to leave the kingdom before the first day of Dhul Qi’dah.
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