Ban on Umrah for Overseas Pilgrims Under 18 Continues
Overseas pilgrims under the age of 18 remain ineligible to perform Umrah, while domestic pilgrims aged 12 and above are permitted to perform Umrah and worship at the Two Holy Mosques. Although social distancing is no longer mandated, wearing masks remains a required precaution. Entry to the holy sites is strictly regulated, with access granted only after verification through official systems.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has resumed issuing permits for Umrah and access to the Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah for international pilgrims through the Eatmarna and Tawakkalna apps. Previously, international pilgrims were required to obtain permits through Saudi Umrah agencies, but now they can acquire them directly without intermediaries. Pilgrims who have already downloaded the apps must update them to access the latest services. Additionally, registration on the Khudum portal is mandatory, as only those who complete this process are eligible to receive permits.
Following nearly two years of restrictions, King Salman’s directive to restore the full capacity of the Two Holy Mosques and the recent lifting of travel bans are expected to significantly boost the number of international Umrah pilgrims in the upcoming season.
