Key Updates to Umrah Rules in 2025

1. Eligibility Requirements

All applicants must meet the following conditions to be eligible for an Umrah visa in 2025:

• Hold a valid passport with at least six months’ validity.
• Be vaccinated against COVID-19 and other mandatory diseases as per Saudi regulations.
• Women under 45 must be accompanied by a mahram unless traveling in a group.

2. New Age Restrictions

Saudi authorities have introduced stricter age requirements for Umrah pilgrims:

• Children under 12 are prohibited from entering the Haram areas in Makkah and Madinah.
• Senior pilgrims above 60 must provide a medical certificate of fitness.

3. Mandatory Vaccinations

Vaccination remains a cornerstone of health protocols:

• COVID-19 vaccine boosters for eligible individuals.
• Seasonal flu and meningitis vaccines.

4. Travel Insurance

Pilgrims must purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, COVID-19-related treatment, and repatriation.

5. Umrah Visa Validity and Stay Duration

• The Umrah visa for 2025 is valid for 90 days.
• Pilgrims can move freely between Makkah, Madinah, and other cities with their visas.

6. Haram Entry Permits

To manage crowd density, permits for Haram entry must be secured through the Tawakkalna or Eatmarna apps.

7. Group Travel Requirements

Travel agencies are mandated to register group itineraries and accommodation details in the Saudi government’s centralized system.

8. Sustainable Practices

The Saudi government emphasizes sustainability:

• Plastic-free zones in the Haram areas.
• Use of eco-friendly transport.

9. Payment and Booking Policies

• All bookings for accommodation and transport must be prepaid.
• Transactions for Umrah packages should be made through authorized agencies.

10. Behavioral Guidelines

Respect for local customs and religious practices is mandatory. Violators can face penalties, including fines and deportation.

Table: Key Details for Umrah 2025

Top 10 FAQs About Umrah in 2025

1. Can I perform Umrah on a tourist visa in 2025?

Yes, individuals with a tourist visa can perform Umrah without additional permits, provided they meet other requirements.

2. Are women allowed to travel alone for Umrah in 2025?

Women over 45 can travel in groups without a mahram, but women under 45 must be accompanied by one.

3. What are the COVID-19 requirements for Umrah?

A complete COVID-19 vaccination certificate is mandatory, along with a booster dose for eligible individuals.

4. Is a physical fitness certificate required for Umrah?

Yes, pilgrims above 60 years of age need a medical fitness certificate.

5. Can I extend my Umrah visa beyond 90 days?

No, the 90-day visa cannot be extended under current regulations.

6. Are there specific entry times for the Haram?

Yes, permits via Tawakkalna or Eatmarna apps determine specific entry times.

7. What is included in the travel insurance?

Travel insurance covers medical emergencies, COVID-19 treatment, and repatriation costs.

8. Can children accompany me to Umrah?

Children below 12 are not allowed in Haram areas.

9. How can I ensure my Umrah agency is authorized?

Verify the agency’s credentials through the official website of the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

10. What should I avoid carrying to Saudi Arabia?

Avoid bringing non-halal food items, alcohol, and prohibited medications.

Actionable Tips for Pilgrims

1. Plan Early: Book your visa, accommodations, and transport at least three months in advance.
2. Check Updates: Stay informed about regulation changes via official Saudi government channels.
3. Use Apps: Familiarize yourself with Tawakkalna and Eatmarna apps to streamline your pilgrimage experience.
4. Travel Smart: Pack light, keeping essentials like Ihram clothing, medications, and copies of important documents.

Why Choose SaudiUmrahVisa?

At SaudiUmrahVisa, we are committed to making your Umrah journey stress-free and meaningful. Our expertise in Saudi Umrah visa processing and our in-depth understanding of current regulations ensure that you can focus on your spiritual experience while we handle the logistics.

For more information, contact us at info@saudiumrahvisa.com.