Umrah pilgrims advised to depart before deadline or face fines, imprisonment, and deportation.
Dubai: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has introduced simplified procedures to ease the departure of Umrah pilgrims while cautioning against overstaying visas.
The ministry urged pilgrims to coordinate with Umrah operators to confirm travel plans, complete check-out procedures with accommodations, and ensure timely transfer to the airport—arriving at least four hours before departure.
Authorities have reiterated that the final deadline for Umrah visa holders to exit the Kingdom is April 18, warning that overstaying will incur penalties such as fines, imprisonment, and deportation.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Interior warned that citizens and residents must not transport, employ, shelter, or assist pilgrims who overstay their visas, emphasizing that violators will face strict legal consequences.
Authorities also urged Umrah service providers to promptly report any cases of overstaying, noting that failure to comply could result in financial penalties.
