The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announced allowing arrivals holding visas from America, Britain, and Schengen countries to perform the Umrah pilgrimage without restrictions.

The ministry explained that "those who have been issued instant visas upon arrival at one of the Saudi airports, among the countries eligible for electronic visas, and for pilgrims holding visas from America, Britain, and Schengen countries, can perform the Umrah ritual with ease and convenience, provided that it is used only once and bears an entry stamp from the issuing country."

The ministry also indicated that "those holding family visit and personal visit visas can perform the Umrah pilgrimage easily and conveniently by booking an appointment through the 'Eatmarna' application, during their visit to their relatives and friends in the Kingdom, by applying through the unified national visa platform."

The new decisions come concurrently with the start of the Umrah season for the new Hijri year 1444.