Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Haj and Umrah has officially set April 13, 2024, as the final date for Umrah pilgrims to enter the country for the pilgrimage. As part of the country’s preparations for the upcoming Hajj season, the Ministry confirmed that pilgrims must depart by April 29, 2024, or face legal consequences. Staying in the Kingdom beyond this date is considered a violation of Saudi regulations and will be subject to penalties.
Pilgrims who wish to perform Umrah must first secure an official visa to Saudi Arabia, followed by an Umrah permit through the Nusuk app, a digital platform designed to manage pilgrimage arrangements. In addition to the visa and permit, pilgrims are required to ensure that their services are provided by licensed operators. These operators, who must be officially approved by the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments, play a crucial role in maintaining the safety and security of the pilgrimage process.
Non-compliant individuals, including campaign organizers and offices operating without authorization, may face hefty fines, with penalties reaching up to Dh50,000 for violations of these regulations. Therefore, it’s critical for Umrah pilgrims to select services from licensed and reputable operators to avoid unnecessary issues.
One of the new regulations for Umrah 2024 requires pilgrims to choose a specific time slot for their pilgrimage. Pilgrims will be permitted to perform Umrah only within the designated time slot each day, meaning that only one slot is allowed per day for each pilgrim. This change aims to manage the flow of pilgrims and ensure a smoother, more organized pilgrimage experience.
In addition to these key regulations, Saudi authorities have issued guidance for the 2025 Hajj season, with deadlines set for finalizing services contracts for international offices. Moreover, strict health criteria for Hajj 2025 have been outlined, especially advising vulnerable groups to consider postponing their pilgrimage to safeguard their health.
For Umrah pilgrims, it is essential to stay updated on these regulations and to follow all legal requirements to avoid penalties and enjoy a hassle-free pilgrimage. Pilgrims are encouraged to complete all necessary steps well before the deadlines and to ensure they are compliant with Saudi Arabia’s guidelines for the 2024 Umrah season.
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