Saudi Arabia introduces Umrah Visa– A 96-hour stopover visa for Indian Pilgrims

Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah Tawfiq bin Fawzan has extended a heartfelt invitation to Indians pilgrims to the West or the Middle East by offering them the privilege of visa issuance within 48 hours and a 96-hour stopover to perform Umrah. 

Saudi Arabia, the birthplace of Islam and the final frontier for Muslim pilgrims, is delighted to ease the Umrah experience for Muslims from India. As part of the Saudi Vision 2023, this initiative aims to facilitate the religious journey and offers keen visitors a chance to explore the diverse land of the Arabs. 

During a joint press briefing with India's Minister of Minority Affairs, Smriti Irani and Minister of State for External Affairs, V Muraleedharan, Minister Tawfiq bin Fawzan said, “Indians traveling to the West or the Middle East can obtain a stopover visa, that is, for 96 hours, and get a visa within the ticket issuance process, which allows them to perform Umrah and visit any city in the Kingdom."

Valid for 90 days, the Umrah Visa for Indians will reward them with a hassle-free journey and an enriching stay backed by enhanced measures, technological advancements, and upgraded infrastructure. 

This collaborative effort between India and Saudi Arabia ought to strengthen bilateral ties and is sure to yield significant results. To streamline visa issuance procedures, the establishment of three new visa centers in India is also a part of the recent endeavor. 

Mecca and Medina, the cities carrying immense spiritual significance for the Muslims, have no equal and are considered the supreme Islamic treasures. Rich in soul-stirring sites and captivating lures, Saudi Arabia, as a whole, is an epic destination to discover. Not forgetting to mention the ever-welcoming residents of this hospitable land.