The Hajj season has already been completed this year. Millions of pilgrims have completed all the rituals in Mecca, and now the attention of Muslims is focused on Umrah. This pilgrimage is available at any time of the year, and now many are actively preparing for the trip. Unlike Hajj, Umrah is not limited by strict quotas, but entry rules, medical conditions, and insurance requirements remain mandatory.
Visas And Current Rules
Today, pilgrims can apply for an Umrah visa for a period of 30 days. For many countries, a one-year tourist eVisa with multiple entry is available, which allows the performance of Umrah, but not Hajj. The new rule on Hajj no more than once every five years remains in force, and those who have already attended the Hajj can now consider Umrah as an opportunity to make a pilgrimage.
From June 2025, Saudi Arabia resumed issuing visas to Umrah after a pause related to Hajj. Entry for pilgrims is open until April 3, 2026, and the departure deadline is April 18, 2026. This means that right now the pilgrims have a long time to choose dates. But it is better to book tickets and hotels in advance, especially on the eve of Ramadan, when the flow of pilgrims increases dramatically.
Medical And Insurance Conditions
To obtain a visa, a pilgrim must have a meningitis vaccination certificate given at least ten days before the trip. Polio or yellow fever vaccinations remain mandatory in a number of countries. In some cases, COVID-19 vaccination certificates are also checked.
Insurance is now a mandatory element. It is included in the price of the visa and covers emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, flight cancellation, delayed departure or baggage loss. However, standard policies are limited, so many pilgrims are currently choosing extended packages that cover more risks, including liability and emergencies beyond the basic list. For travelers departing from the UAE, consulting an insurance broker in Dubai can help find the most suitable policy with wider coverage for such long and demanding trips.
Transport And Logistics
Today, the main route for pilgrims from the UAE remains the same: the flight to Jeddah takes about three hours, then the journey to Mecca takes an hour and a half. An alternative route is through Medina, where it takes 3.5–4 hours to fly, after which there will be a land trip within 4-5 hours. Bus service is actively used: the journey from Dubai takes 20-22 hours, tickets cost 220-400 dirhams. Many people travel by private car: the route lasts from 12 to 18 hours, and right at the border you need to take out temporary insurance, undergo biometrics and pay a fee of 30 AED per person.
During Ramadan 2025, more than 3.4 million pilgrims passed through Saudi airports. This fact underlines that now, while the flow is smaller, it is more convenient to book tickets and hotels. Indian pilgrims are already required to confirm their accommodation through the Nusuk app, even if they plan to stay with relatives. Similar requirements apply to transportation.
Rituals And Preparation
Right now, Muslims preparing for Umrah are repeating the order of rituals: donning ihram, tawaf around the Kaaba, sai between Safa and Marwa hills. Men are forbidden to wear tailored clothes and use perfumes, women should dress modestly and not cover their faces. The pilgrims and their children prepare the documents and coordinate the trip with the groups. Women over the age of 45 can travel without a mahram, provided they are accompanied by a group.
Modern Risks And Precautions
Summer in Mecca is still hot, with temperatures rising above 41°C and often reaching 50°C. Therefore, it is important for pilgrims who are leaving right now to monitor their drinking regime, protect themselves from the sun and plan a schedule in advance. Violating visa deadlines remains a serious risk, including fines, deportation, and a ban on re-entry.
Scammers actively offer “profitable” Umrah and Hajj packages. Today, it is especially important to use only official channels, check agency licenses, and pay for your trip using secure methods.
Now, after the end of the Hajj, pilgrims all over the world are turning their attention to Umrah. Visas are already being issued, the requirements are clearly spelled out, and Muslims have several months to plan. Proper preparation, medical certificates, insurance, early bookings and knowledge of the rules make travel safe. All this allows us to focus on the main thing the spiritual side of Umrah, which is available today without time limits.
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