Saudi Arabia sets April 29 deadline for foreign Umrah pilgrims to depart ahead of Hajj season

Dubai: Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced that April 29 (corresponding to Dhul Qada 1) will be the final day for foreign Umrah pilgrims to depart the Kingdom, as the country shifts its efforts to preparations for the annual Hajj season.

In an official statement, the ministry also designated April 13 (Shawwal 15) as the last day for entry into Saudi Arabia for those performing Umrah this year. Pilgrims remaining in the Kingdom beyond the April 29 deadline will be considered in violation of the country’s visa and pilgrimage regulations.

The ministry stressed that overstaying past the permitted dates constitutes a legal violation and warned that strict penalties would be enforced.

Individuals, companies, and Umrah service providers found in breach of the rules may face fines of up to SR100,000 and potential legal action.

 Authorities urged all service providers and sponsoring establishments to comply fully with departure timelines and reporting protocols. “Failure to report overstaying pilgrims will result in maximum penalties,” the statement added.

 The annual Hajj pilgrimage, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, officially begins on Dhul Qada 1.

The temporary suspension of Umrah for foreign pilgrims in the lead-up to Hajj is part of a long-standing policy aimed at ensuring smooth logistics, safety, and crowd control during the peak pilgrimage period.