The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has confirmed the full calendar for the 1448 AH Umrah season, setting out the deadlines that govern when pilgrims may apply for visas, enter the Kingdom and complete their journey. While much attention has focused on the season's reopening, the closing dates are equally important for anyone planning a pilgrimage in the months ahead.

According to the Ministry, the season opened with visa issuance beginning on May 31, 2026, and pilgrims able to enter Makkah and obtain permits through the Nusuk application from June 1, 2026. The calendar then runs through to the spring of 2027.

Key Closing Dates

The Ministry has set March 9, 2027 as the final date for issuing Umrah visas for the 1448 season. After this date, new visas will no longer be granted until the following season opens.

Pilgrims holding valid visas will be permitted to enter Saudi Arabia until March 23, 2027. The final deadline for pilgrim departures has been set for April 7, 2027. These staggered dates give the authorities a clear window to wind down the Umrah season before preparations intensify for the Hajj that follows.

The Ministry said the structured calendar is part of its ongoing effort to improve operational efficiency and raise the standard of services offered to pilgrims throughout the season.

Shorter Visa Validity Window

One change carried into the 1448 season affects how long a visa remains usable before travel. The entry validity of the Umrah visa has been reduced to 30 days from the date of issuance, down from the roughly 90 days allowed in earlier seasons.

This means pilgrims must enter the Kingdom within one month of receiving their visa. Once inside Saudi Arabia, however, they may remain for up to 90 days to complete their Umrah and any associated visits. According to the Ministry, the tighter issuance window is designed to align travel more closely with confirmed bookings and to reduce the number of unused visas in the system.

What Pilgrims Should Watch

The combination of a firm season-closing date and a shorter visa validity window means timing matters more than in previous years. A visa issued close to the March 9 deadline still carries the 30-day entry rule, so late applicants should confirm that their travel falls within both limits.

Pilgrims are also reminded that the Nusuk platform remains central to the process. Permits to enter Makkah and to perform Umrah are issued through the app, and confirmed bookings linked to Nusuk are required before a permit will be granted.

Practical Tips

  • Apply with travel dates in mind. Because the visa is valid for only 30 days from issuance, request it once your flights and accommodation are confirmed rather than far in advance.
  • Note the three deadlines. Visa issuance ends March 9, 2027; entry ends March 23, 2027; departure must be completed by April 7, 2027.
  • Keep your Nusuk account ready. Register with your passport and visa details early so you can secure Umrah and Rawdah permits without delay.
  • Plan the in-Kingdom stay. You may remain up to 90 days after entry, but build in margin so your departure falls comfortably before the season-end deadline.
  • Verify everything through official channels. Confirm dates and requirements via the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and the Nusuk app before booking.