RIYADH – Saudi Arabia announced yesterday that it has allowed all types of visitors, including those holding tourist visas, to perform umrah in the kingdom, Xinhua quoted the Saudi Press Agency report.
The decision, which is valid for the new umrah season that began on July 30, aims to enrich the cultural and religious experience of umrah performers, said the Hajj and Umrah Ministry.
Visitors eligible for on-arrival visas or e-visas and holders of United States, British or Schengen visas are also included.
Holders of visas for family and other visits can also perform umrah by making an appointment through the Eatmarna application or sending applications to the Unified National Visa Platform.
Visitors are also required to have health insurance that covers treatment for Covid-19 infections, accidents, flight delays or cancellations, and other issues in order to perform umrah.
The Hajj and Umrah Ministry announced on July 31 that 20,000 umrah visas had been issued.
Yesterday’s decision comes in the wake of the kingdom’s announcement early this month of re-introducing the on-arrival visa programme after it had been suspended for about two years because of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Saudi Arabia used to issue haj and umrah visas for pilgrims, allowing them only to move between the cities of Makkah and Madinah to perform the rituals. – Bernama, August 14, 2022
