Final Date Announced for Umrah Visas and Pilgrims Departure

Saudi authorities have announced the final schedule for issuing Umrah visas and the departure deadline for pilgrims, giving clear timelines for travelers planning to visit the holy cities this year.

According to the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in Saudi Arabia, the last day to issue Umrah visas will be the 1st of Shawwal, which marks the beginning of the post-Eid period.

Officials also confirmed that pilgrims must enter the Kingdom before the 15th of Shawwal, while all Umrah visitors must leave Saudi Arabia by the 1st of Dhul-Qadah.

Strict Compliance With Umrah and Hajj Regulations

The announcement came during the ministry’s 17th consecutive virtual meeting with Saudi Umrah companies, where authorities stressed the need for strict compliance with regulations governing the transition from the Umrah season to the Hajj season.

Officials reiterated that Hajj can only be performed with a valid Hajj visa, and pilgrims are not allowed to perform Hajj using an Umrah visa.

Pakistan’s Preparations for Hajj 2026

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony confirmed that preparations for Hajj 2026 are progressing according to schedule despite ongoing international tensions.

Authorities stated that:

• Hajj visa issuance is moving forward quickly

• The Hajj flight schedule will be announced after Eid-ul-Fitr

• Arrangements for accommodation and facilities in Makkah and Madinah are being finalized

Pilgrims have been advised to rely only on official sources such as the Pak Hajj App or the ministry’s official website for authentic information.

Changes in Pakistan’s Hajj Policy 2026

The federal cabinet has also introduced major changes in the Hajj quota distribution for this year.

Under Hajj Policy 2026:

• 70% quota will be allocated to the government Hajj scheme

• 30% quota will be reserved for private Hajj tour operators

For comparison, in 2025 Pakistan received a total Hajj quota of 179,210 pilgrims, which was divided equally between government and private schemes.

Reforms After Last Year’s Issues

The policy changes come after more than 67,000 Pakistani pilgrims were unable to perform Hajj in 2025 due to administrative problems.

Officials say the new system aims to ensure:

• Better transparency

• Stronger monitoring of tour operators

• Easier access to Hajj through the government scheme

Authorities have urged intending pilgrims to complete their documentation early and follow official guidelines to avoid any complications during the upcoming Hajj season.