by In a landmark decision that strengthens religious tourism and regional ties, Saudi Arabia has officially announced that citizens and residents of GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries can now perform Umrah at any time of the year, without the need for additional permits or lengthy procedures.
This progressive step, hailed by many across the Gulf, is part of the Kingdom’s wider efforts to streamline pilgrimage access and promote spiritual connectivity under the banner of Vision 2030.
🕋 What’s New?
Previously, even GCC residents had to apply for special permits or go through group travel arrangements to perform Umrah. With this new update, the Saudi government has:
- Removed entry restrictions for GCC citizens and residents wishing to perform Umrah.
- Allowed individual pilgrims to perform Umrah independently, without being part of organized tours.
- Simplified the eVisa and permit processes for those entering Makkah for religious purposes.
Whether you’re a citizen of the UAE, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, or a resident holding a valid GCC residency permit, you now have open access to perform Umrah throughout the year.
Saudi Arabia: GCC citizens and residents can now perform Umrah anytime.
🛂 How to Perform Umrah Under the New Policy
For GCC Citizens:
- Entry into Saudi Arabia is visa-free.
- Pilgrims can travel directly to Makkah at any time.
For GCC Residents:
- Apply for an eVisa through the official Saudi Umrah or Nusuk platforms.
- Ensure your profession is eligible for an eVisa (a broad list of professions is accepted).
- No requirement for a sponsor or group travel.
📲 Enhanced Digital Support
Saudi Arabia has further introduced user-friendly mobile applications like Nusuk and Tawakkalna, where users can:
- Book Umrah slots
- Reserve accommodations and transport
- Access real-time crowd and safety updates
- View prayer timings and worship guidelines
These digital innovations make the spiritual journey more accessible, secure, and convenient.
🤝 Regional Impact
This policy benefits millions across the Gulf:
- Eases spiritual travel for expatriates living in GCC countries.
- Encourages frequent visits to the Holy Mosques, especially during off-peak seasons.
- Boosts Saudi Arabia’s religious tourism economy, a key pillar of its Vision 2030 goals.
- Strengthens cultural and religious unity among neighboring Gulf nations.
🌍 Vision 2030: A Welcoming Kingdom
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 aims to welcome over 30 million pilgrims annually for Hajj and Umrah. By removing bureaucratic and visa-related hurdles, the Kingdom is sending a strong message: its holy sites are open and accessible to all sincere worshippers.
This move is particularly meaningful for Muslim expatriates in the GCC, many of whom have long dreamed of performing Umrah but were restricted by administrative and logistical barriers.
📌 Final Thoughts
Saudi Arabia’s decision to allow GCC citizens and residents to perform Umrah anytime is a milestone in modern pilgrimage history. It marks a significant shift toward inclusivity, flexibility, and spiritual freedom in the Islamic world.
Whether it’s your first visit or a return to the blessed cities of Makkah and Madinah, performing Umrah has never been easier — especially for our brothers and sisters across the Gulf.
