Saudi Arabia has reopened its doors to Umrah pilgrims for the 1448 AH season. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah resumed issuing Umrah visas on May 31, 2026, with pilgrims able to enter Makkah and obtain their Umrah permits through the Nusuk application from June 1, 2026. The reopening follows the conclusion of the Hajj 1447 season, during which entry to Makkah was restricted to Hajj visa holders.

According to the ministry, the new calendar is part of ongoing efforts to improve operational efficiency and raise the standard of services offered to pilgrims throughout the year. Millions of worshippers from around the world are expected to perform the lesser pilgrimage in the months ahead.

The Full Season Calendar

The ministry has published a fixed timetable that pilgrims and travel agents are expected to follow closely. The headline dates are clear and worth noting early.

  • May 31, 2026: Issuance of Umrah visas resumes for the 1448 season.
  • June 1, 2026: Pilgrims may enter Makkah and obtain Umrah permits through the Nusuk app.
  • March 9, 2027 (Shawwal 1, 1448): The final date for issuing Umrah visas.
  • March 23, 2027 (Shawwal 15, 1448): The last day pilgrims may enter the Kingdom on an Umrah visa.
  • April 7, 2027 (Shawwal 30, 1448): The final departure date for Umrah pilgrims.

The ministry called on Umrah companies and overseas agents to adhere strictly to the approved timetable and to comply with all official regulations. Pilgrims planning their journey should build their travel around these deadlines, leaving a clear margin before the closing dates rather than booking at the last moment.

Nusuk at the Centre of the Process

As in recent seasons, the Nusuk platform remains the official gateway for the Umrah journey. Pilgrims use the app to obtain Umrah permits, schedule their visits to the Grand Mosque, and organise services before they even arrive in the Kingdom. The ministry has emphasised that the digital permit system helps manage crowds and ensures every pilgrim has a confirmed time slot for worship.

Pilgrims should download the Nusuk app and create a verified account well before travelling. Booking an Umrah permit in advance reduces uncertainty on arrival and helps avoid crowding at peak times. The app also organises permits for entry to the Rawdah in the Prophet's Mosque in Madinah, which remains in high demand.

What This Means for Pilgrims

The reopening of the season is welcome news for the millions who wait each year for the chance to perform Umrah. Because the calendar now runs on firm deadlines, planning ahead matters more than ever. Those hoping to travel near the end of the season should be especially careful, as visa issuance stops in early March 2027 and entry closes shortly after.

Pilgrims are reminded that Umrah, while not obligatory, is a deeply rewarded act of worship. The Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, said that one Umrah to the next is an expiation for what lies between them (Sahih Bukhari 1773, Sahih Muslim 1349). Approaching the journey with sincerity, patience, and proper preparation reflects the spirit of the act itself.

Practical Tips

  • Book early. Avoid the final weeks of the season when visa and entry deadlines approach.
  • Use official channels. Arrange visas and packages only through licensed agents and the Nusuk platform to protect your rights.
  • Confirm your permit. Secure your Umrah permit in the Nusuk app before heading to the Grand Mosque.
  • Track the deadlines. Note the March and April 2027 cut-off dates for visa issuance, entry, and departure.
  • Prepare spiritually. Learn the rites of Umrah in advance so your time in Makkah is spent in worship, not confusion.

With the season now open, pilgrims worldwide can begin their preparations. According to the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, the structured calendar is designed to make that journey smoother, safer, and more organised for everyone who answers the call.