RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has announced new regulations restricting entry for Umrah visa holders after the 15th day of the Islamic month of Shawwal, as part of efforts to manage the flow of pilgrims and prepare for the upcoming Hajj season.
According to a directive circulated by Saudi aviation authorities, all airlines operating in the kingdom are directed to strictly comply with the new rule.
Saudi Civil Aviation officials warned that in case of failure to do so, legal action would be taken against both the carrier and the traveller.
The advisory states that passengers with Umrah visas should not be allowed to board flights to Saudi Arabia after the 15th of Shawwal each year.
This measure is intended to regulate the flow of pilgrims and supports organised preparations for the upcoming Hajj season.
“Airlines must not issue boarding passes to Umrah visa holders attempting to travel after this date,” the Saudi aviation notice said. “Violations will be addressed under Saudi Civil Aviation Law.”
The decision highlights the Kingdom’s efforts to streamline religious travel and manage operational load across its major airports during high-volume months.
Airlines have been directed to update their systems and inform travel agents of the new guidelines. Saudi authorities noted that the directive will be reviewed each year in line with operational requirements and seasonal planning.
Earlier, Saudi Arabia approved an additional Hajj quota of 10,000 pilgrims for Pakistan. The decision came after a special request made by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar during a conversation with his Saudi counterpart, Prince Faisal bin Farhan.
With the latest increase, a total of 189,210 Pakistani pilgrims will be able to perform Hajj this year.
