Saudi Arabia launches electronic visa processing app for Umrah pilgrims

Saudi Arabia launched an electronic visa processing app for pilgrims planning to perform Umrah, Minister of Hajj Tawfiq bin Fawzan al-Rabiah said in a press conference on June 2.

“The visit visa for Umrah will be issued now within 24 hours. Applications for Umrah visas can be submitted from outside Saudi Arabia, away from Umrah campaigns. The app also allows pilgrims to find accommodation and arrange transportation,” he added.

As per the local newspaper Saudi Gazette, Al-Rabiah said the kingdom’s Vision 2030 aims to facilitate the reception of Umrah pilgrims in larger numbers.

The minister said one million people will perform Hajj this year. He also said the ministry and other related agencies are working to ensure the health of Hajj pilgrims.

“The Hajj smart card will be implemented this year,” Al Rabiah said while noting that digital technologies would help organise this year’s Hajj in the perfect manner.

Read: Umrah pilgrims advised to take Covid-19 vaccine

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has issued a new circular to all airlines operating to Saudi Arabian airports, including chartered airlines, regarding the health requirements that should be met by Hajj pilgrims.

The circular stipulates that all passengers arriving in Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj this year, should be less than 65 years old, they must have completed immunisation with basic doses of covid-19 vaccines accredited by the Ministry of Health, and they should submit a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to departure.