The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has officially announced that the Umrah pilgrimage will resume on June 11, 2025, equivalent to 15 Dhul Hijjah 1446 in the Islamic calendar. This development comes shortly after the conclusion of the 2025 Hajj season, marking a significant spiritual reopening for millions of Muslims across the globe.
According to statements from the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, arrangements are already in top gear to begin issuing Umrah visas to international pilgrims. This is part of the Kingdom’s continued efforts to enhance access to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah for those seeking to perform the lesser pilgrimage outside the Hajj season.
The Ministry disclosed that the visa application process will be facilitated through the government’s digital platform known as the Nusuk App, which has become the official portal for all Hajj and Umrah-related services. Through this app, pilgrims will be able to secure electronic permits, access travel and accommodation services, and receive real-time updates on regulations and available facilities.
It is pertinent to note that the resumption date also aligns with preparations for the Islamic New Year, which begins on 1 Muharram 1447 AH (July 19, 2025), providing an auspicious timeline for Muslims planning to commence the new year with acts of devotion.
Authorities also clarified that the Umrah visa will be valid for a 90-day single entry, during which pilgrims are expected to perform their rituals and exit the country. The visa does not permit work or unrelated activities, a point the Ministry continues to stress in its public awareness campaigns to avoid misuse and ensure pilgrim safety.
Earlier in May 2025, Saudi Arabia temporarily suspended Umrah visa issuance from May 23 to June 21 to concentrate national resources on hosting the Hajj — one of the world’s largest religious gatherings. During this period, visit visa holders were also restricted from entering the city of Makkah to maintain order and prioritize the needs of Hajj pilgrims.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah reiterated its commitment to continuously upgrading services for pilgrims through technical innovation, logistical planning, and a highly trained workforce. This approach, they say, is in line with the directives of the Saudi leadership under Vision 2030, which aims to increase the number of annual Umrah visitors to 30 million by the end of the decade.
With the gates of Umrah set to reopen, Muslim faithful in Nigeria and beyond can now begin to make arrangements for their journey, hopeful for a spiritually fulfilling experience under improved service standards.
