United News of Bangladesh

Saudi Arabia is preparing to shorten the validity period of Umrah visas from three months to one month in a move aimed at better managing the growing influx of pilgrims, according to a report by Al Arabiya.net. Citing official sources, the Saudi news outlet said the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah will soon implement the change, reducing the visa’s validity to 30 days from the date of issuance. The new regulation is expected to take effect next week. Since the beginning of the new Umrah season in early June, more than four million Umrah visas have been issued to international pilgrims — a record figure in less than five months. Under the revised rules, a visa will be automatically cancelled 30 days after issuance if the holder fails to enter the Kingdom within that period. However, the adjustment will not impact the duration of stay for those who arrive in Saudi Arabia, as Umrah pilgrims will still be permitted to remain in the country for up to three months. Read more: Bangladesh urges Saudi Arabia to maint 1,000-pilgrim Hajj quota per agency The decision aims to prevent overcrowding in the holy cities of Makkah and Medina during the cooler months, said Ahmed Bajafar, advisor to the National Committee for Umrah and Visit. Although Umrah rituals are performed only in Makkah, many pilgrims also visit Medina to offer prayers at the Prophet Mohammad’s mosque during their trip. Earlier in October, Saudi Arabia tightened Umrah procedures, requiring advance booking of accommodation and verification of transportation arrangements on the Nusuk or Masar platforms upon arrival. The Kingdom has also reiterated that visitors holding any type of visa are eligible to perform Umrah during their stay. With input from Khaleej Times Read more: How to Perform Umrah from Bangladesh?