The Saudi Arabian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has officially announced the start of the upcoming Umrah season for foreig pilgrims, set to commence on Wednesday, June 11, 2024 (15 Dhul Hijjah 1446). This information is part of the newly released Umrah calendar for the Islamic year 1447, shared by the ministry on their platform.

The comprehensive calendar includes vital details regarding visa issuance, service agreements with international agents, and key dates for the arrival and departure of pilgrims traveling from abroad.

In the announcement, the ministry emphasized, "The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announces the Umrah season calendar for the year 1447 AH, as part of preparations to serve pilgrims and visitors arriving at the Prophet’s Mosque with Umrah visas."

Visa applications for Umrah will open on June 10, 2024 (14 Dhul Hijjah 1446), with the first group of foreign pilgrims expected to arrive the day after. Furthermore, contracts between Umrah companies and approved foreign agents must be finalized by May 27, 2024 (29 Dhul Qada 1446), ensuring readiness for the influx of visitors.

Preparations for this year’s Umrah season began on March 25, marked by the initiation of the qualification process for external agents through the “Nusuk” platform and the “Umrah Path” system.

The signing of formal agreements between Umrah companies and external agents commenced on April 14 at the Hajj and Umrah Services Forum 2025.

The calendar outlines numerous important deadlines: the last day for Umrah visa issuance will be March 20, 2026 (1 Shawwal 1447), while the final date for pilgrims to enter the Kingdom is set for April 3, 2026 (15 Shawwal 1447). All pilgrims must depart by April 18, 2026 (1 Dhul Qada 1447).

Additionally, applications for external agent qualification will close on January 20, 2026 (1 Sha’ban 1447), which also marks the last date for contract approvals between agents and Umrah operators.

The Ministry underscored that this structured timeline is part of its ongoing commitment to enhance pilgrimage operations and improve the quality of service provided to pilgrims globally.