RIYADH — The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah clarified that the last day for issuing Umrah visas for the current annual Umrah season is the first of Shawwal, and the last day for the Umrah pilgrims to enter the Kingdom is Shawwal 15. The ministry stated that the last day of pilgrims’ stay in the Kingdom will be the first of Dhul Qada. This was revealed during the ministry’s 17th periodic meeting with Saudi Umrah companies, held virtually on Saturday. During the meeting, the ministry emphasized the necessity of adhering to the regulations governing the Hajj season. It reiterated that Hajj must be performed with a valid Hajj visa and shall not be performed with an Umrah visa. Addressing the meeting, Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah commended the efforts of the Umrah companies and their cooperation during Ramadan, acknowledging their contributions to serving pilgrims, addressing the situations of stranded Umrah pilgrims, and facilitating their return to their destinations. The minister stressed the importance of continued compliance with the regulations and instructions governing the Umrah season, including the staggered arrival times of pilgrims at airports and the continuous updating of their departure data via the Nusk Masar platform. He also invited the companies to actively participate in the third edition of the Umrah and Visit Forum 2026. The meeting included a presentation on the most prominent indicators of the Umrah season and the successes achieved during it, in addition to the preparations for the Umrah and Visit Forum. The forum's role in supporting partnerships, exchanging expertise, and showcasing available opportunities was also discussed, all contributing to the enhancement of the Umrah and visit services system. The meeting was part of the periodic meetings organized by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah with Umrah companies, aimed at strengthening communication with sector partners and monitoring the development of services provided to pilgrims, in line with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 to improve the experience of Umrah pilgrims and visitors.