Saudi Arabia has announced an extension in the validity of visas for Pakistani nationals and other foreign visitors who were unable to leave the Kingdom due to ongoing regional situation.
In a statement, the Ministry of Interior of Saudi Arabia confirmed that all types of visas, including visit, Umrah, transit, and final exit, that expired on or after February 25, 2026, will now remain valid until April 18, 2026.
The relief will assist travellers stranded amid the current regional situation, which has impacted air travel.
Authorities advised visa holders with expired permits to proceed directly to departure ports, where exit procedures will be completed smoothly without requiring prior formalities.
Importantly, the ministry clarified that no additional fees will be charged for those availing this facility to exit the country.
The extension comes as many foreign nationals, including Pakistanis, were unable to leave due to flight disruptions caused by escalating tensions between United States, Israel and Iran, which led to airspace closures and suspension of airline operations across the region.
Saudi Arabia announces visa deadline for Umrah pilgrims
Saudi Arabia earlier set final deadlines for issuing Umrah visas and regulating the entry and stay of pilgrims during the current Umrah season, according to the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
The ministry stated that Umrah visas will be issued until the 1st of Shawwal, while pilgrims must enter the kingdom by Shawwal 15. All pilgrims are required to depart by the 1st of Dhul Qada, marking the official end of their stay.
The announcement was made during the ministry’s 17th virtual meeting with Umrah companies, where officials emphasised strict compliance with regulations ahead of the upcoming Hajj season. Authorities reiterated that performing Hajj requires a valid Hajj visa and cannot be done on an Umrah visa.
The kingdom prepares for a large influx of pilgrims, with officials highlighting that clear visa regulations are essential to ensure smooth organisation and safety.
During the meeting, Minister of Hajj and Umrah Tawfiq Al Rabiah praised Umrah companies for their efforts during Ramadan, including assisting stranded pilgrims and facilitating their return home.
He urged companies to maintain coordination and comply with all guidelines, such as managing staggered arrivals at airports and updating departure schedules through the Nusuk Masar platform.
The minister also encouraged participation in the 2026 Umrah and Visit Forum, aimed at strengthening partnerships and improving services for pilgrims.
Officials added that regular meetings with Umrah operators help enhance coordination and service quality, in line with the country’s Vision 2030 goals to improve the pilgrimage experience.
E-gates deployement at Saudi airports
Earlier, Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Passports started deploying advanced technology at major airports in order to facilitate easy and fast travel for the Umrah pilgrims, especially during the busy Ramzan season.
The use of electronic gate (E-gate) technology has been introduced by the directorate in King Abdulaziz International airport in Jeddah and Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz international airport in Madinah.
The new system enables pilgrims to undertake the entry and exit procedure by themselves using biometric verification techniques.
Using biometric checks, travellers can travel through immigration in seconds without any manual processing being required.
Also read: Hajj 2026 operation begin: when will first flight depart?
