Saudi Arabia streamlines Umrah departures, warns against overstaying visas

2026-03-22 - 18:40

JEDDAH — Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has introduced streamlined procedures to facilitate the departure of Umrah pilgrims.It urged them to coordinate with Umrah companies to confirm travel schedules and complete check-out arrangements with their accommodation providers.The ministry advised pilgrims to ensure timely transfer to the airport and to arrive at least four hours before departure.Authorities reiterated that the final deadline for Umrah visa holders to leave the Kingdom is Dhul Qa’dah 1, 1447, corresponding to April 18, 2026, stressing that overstaying will result in penalties including fines, imprisonment and deportation.The Ministry of Interior emphasized that citizens and residents must not transport, employ, shelter or assist pilgrims who overstay their visas, warning that violators will face strict penalties, including fines, jail terms and deportation.Relevant authorities also called on Umrah service providers to promptly report any cases of overstaying, noting that failure to report violations will result in financial penalties.