Multi-Entry e-Visas, More Flights: Streamlined Umrah Experience for UAE Residents

Good news for UAE residents seeking to perform Umrah! Saudi Arabia has announced a series of initiatives including new multi-entry e-visas to facilitate and enhance their pilgrimage experience.

These initiatives were revealed by Dr Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al Rabiah, the Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, during his official visit to the UAE.

Multi-Entry e-Visas for Umrah

One of the key highlights of the announcement is that UAE residents can now perform Umrah with a convenient multi-entry e-visa, allowing them to extend their stay in Saudi Arabia for up to 90 days per year. This increased flexibility offers pilgrims more time to explore the holy cities and surrounding regions.

Also Read: Saudi Arabia Partners with VFS Global for Enhanced Visa Services

Enhanced Air Connectivity

Saudi Airlines is set to enhance air connectivity between the two nations by launching three weekly flights from Dubai to Medina, with plans to ramp up operations to daily flights during the holy month of Ramadan.

Additionally, flynas Airlines will offer low-cost flights from Abu Dhabi to Jeddah and Medina, making the pilgrimage more accessible and affordable for travellers.

Increased Flight Frequency

To accommodate the growing demand, the flight schedule between Dubai and Jeddah will significantly boost, doubling to 29 flights per week. Furthermore, daily flights to Medina will be available, ensuring smoother travel experiences for pilgrims.

Must Read: Saudi Arabia Introduces New Visa-on-Arrival for Umrah Pilgrims

Streamlined Travel Procedures

Efforts to streamline travel procedures were a focal point of discussions during Dr. Al Rabiah’s visit. Talks revolved around enabling UAE expatriates to register their fingerprints before travelling to Saudi Arabia, aiming to reduce waiting times at land and airports.

Both sides also explored ways to enhance the quality of services at ports for those arriving by land and expedite entry procedures.

Future Collaboration and Enhancements

During his visit, Dr Al Rabiah held meetings with officials responsible for Umrah services to discuss further collaboration in facilitating pilgrim arrivals and enhancing services provided by Tasheer visa centres and the Nusuk platform. These efforts aim to ensure UAE expatriates have the best possible Umrah experiences.

Conclusion

Overall, these initiatives mark a significant step forward in strengthening the ties between Saudi Arabia and the UAE and making the Umrah pilgrimage more accessible and convenient for residents of the Emirates.