Saudi Arabia will resume issuing Umrah visas on May 31, 2026 (14 Dhul Hijjah 1447 AH), with international pilgrims expected to begin entering Makkah for the new Umrah season from early June. The reopening follows the annual Hajj closure that has been in effect since April 18.

Key Reopening Dates

  • May 31 (14 Dhul Hijjah): Umrah visa issuance resumes through the Nusuk platform and authorised agents
  • June 1: Entry into Makkah reopens for Umrah permit holders. Nusuk app permits for Grand Mosque prayer and Tawaf become available again.
  • ~June 10-11: First international Umrah pilgrim arrivals expected, once visa processing and flight schedules align

The 1448 AH Umrah season officially begins with the reopening, running through until the next Hajj closure in approximately April 2027.

New 30-Day Entry Rule

An important change for the new Umrah season: pilgrims must now enter Saudi Arabia within 30 days of their Umrah visa being issued. This is significantly tighter than the previous 90-day window.

If you miss the 30-day entry deadline, your visa lapses and you must reapply through the Nusuk platform. This means pilgrims should not apply for their Umrah visa until their travel dates are confirmed and flights are booked.

How to Book Umrah After Hajj

The process for booking Umrah in the new season:

  1. Download the Nusuk app (iOS/Android) if you have not already, or visit nusuk.sa
  2. Create a verified account with your passport details
  3. Book your Umrah package or apply for a visa through an authorised agent
  4. Obtain your Umrah permit via the Nusuk app - this is mandatory for entry to Masjid al-Haram
  5. Enter Saudi Arabia within 30 days of visa issuance

What Changed This Year

Several aspects of the Umrah experience have been enhanced during the Hajj 2026 season and will carry forward:

  • Nusuk platform expanded to 126 countries with 130+ digital services
  • Rawdah booking in Madinah now fully managed through the Nusuk app with timed slots
  • Full 5G coverage at Masjid al-Haram and Masjid an-Nabawi for faster app and connectivity performance
  • Expanded shading and cooling infrastructure remains in place from Hajj

Best Time to Perform Umrah

The weeks immediately after Hajj (June-July) tend to be less crowded than Ramadan season, making it an excellent time for a more peaceful Umrah experience. Hotel prices near the Haram are typically at their lowest in the months following Hajj before gradually increasing toward Ramadan.

However, temperatures in Makkah during June-July can reach 42-45 degrees Celsius. If heat is a concern, consider waiting until the autumn months (October-November) when temperatures moderate to 30-35 degrees while still enjoying relatively low crowds.

For Pilgrims Still in Saudi Arabia

If you performed Hajj 2026 and wish to perform Umrah before departing, you may do so after the Hajj closure period ends on May 31. Many pilgrims combine a post-Hajj Umrah with their visit to Madinah before flying home. Check with your Hajj operator about whether your package includes time for this.