Saudi Arabia has announced that all foreign Umrah pilgrims must leave the country by April 29, 2025. The directive aims to streamline preparations for the upcoming Hajj pilgrimage, expected to begin around mid-June 2025.
This decision, issued by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, applies strictly to those visiting on Umrah visas. The ministry clarified that foreign pilgrims cannot remain in the kingdom beyond the specified date, regardless of their visa validity.
The deadline applies to all pilgrims, whether they arrived early in the year or during Ramadan. Those overstaying may face fines, deportation, or future visa bans.
Saudi authorities have urged travel agencies and Umrah operators to make sure pilgrims return home before the cut-off date. Airlines have also been advised to adjust return schedules accordingly.
Officials stressed that the restriction does not apply to pilgrims arriving on other types of visas, such as resident or work permits. However, any misuse of visas or failure to comply could impact future travel privileges.
The move is part of Saudi Arabia’s annual planning strategy to separate the Umrah season from Hajj. It helps manage large crowds, ensures safety, and improves pilgrim services during the peak Hajj period.
Last year, Saudi Arabia hosted over 1.8 million pilgrims for Hajj, and authorities expect an even larger turnout in 2025.
The Hajj pilgrimage, one of the five pillars of Islam, sees millions of Muslims from across the globe travel to Mecca and Medina. To manage this massive influx, the Saudi government has increasingly introduced digital services, smart crowd control, and early visa processes.
The current advisory is a part of this larger modernisation and management framework.
Foreign pilgrims and tour operators are advised to regularly check the official Ministry of Hajj and Umrah platforms for any changes or extensions to deadlines
