Nationals of 49 countries eligible for visas on arrival
Riyadh — On Thursday, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announced tourist and commercial visa holder would be permitted to perform Umrah during their stay in Saudi Arabia.
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This facility is available to citizens of 49 countries. Travelers can apply for their visas online through the “Visit Saudi Arabia’ portal or upon arrival at a Saudi airport. The ministry explained the decision would facilitate people in performing the shorter pilgrimage.
The ministry elaborated that US, UK, and Schengen visa holders also qualify to perform Umrah. The announcement comes along with the start of the new Umrah season for the current year, 1444 AH.
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The permission will pave the way for a large number of Muslims from around the world to perform Umrah with ease.
The new system allows visitors to get a 12-month tourist visa upon arrival at any Saudi airport without a prior application. The visa holders will be allowed to visit all cities and regions of the Kingdom.
The visa applicants can be from countries eligible for electronic visas. For American, UK, and Schengen visa holders, their visas shall be valid and bear an entry stamp from the issuing country.
Tourist and commercial family visit visa holder from different nationalities can also perform Umrah by booking an appointment through the Eatmarna application. Their relatives in the Kingdom can apply through the National Unified Visa Platform.
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Umrah pilgrims must have comprehensive health insurance that includes coverage for coronavirus infection.
The insurance should also cover accidental death or disability, expenses due to flight delays or cancellations, and other matters.
Umrah hopefuls from other countries should apply for visas at the Kingdom’s embassies in their respective countries.
