Recent changes
29 July 2026. Rawdah permits required for all visitors. Nusuk permits are now required for Rawdah visits in Masjid an-Nabawi, limited to one per person every 30 days. Slots fill within hours; arrive 45 minutes before your window.
21 July 2026. Haramain rail adds two daily departures. Two further daily services in each direction, easing pressure on the 07:00 and 09:00 trains. Journey time unchanged at 2h 10m.
14 July 2026. Umrah visa validity extended to 90 days from issue. The permitted stay remains 30 days from entry, and the visa remains single entry.
30 June 2026. Issuance resumes after the Hajj period. Processing is back to the normal 24-72 hour range on direct Nusuk applications.
12 May 2026. Women 18+ may apply without a mahram. This is a visa rule; scholarly positions on travel differ between schools and remain a separate question.
Where to check official rules
The Nusuk platform, operated by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, is the authoritative source for visa rules and permits. Always confirm there before paying anyone, including us.
Questions
How often do Saudi Umrah rules change?
Several times a year. The changes that matter most to travellers are visa validity, the Rawdah permit system, and the annual pause in Umrah visa issuance during the Hajj period.
Where can I check official Umrah rules?
The Nusuk platform, operated by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, is the authoritative source for visa rules and permits. Always confirm there before paying anyone.