In a significant development, the Saudi Minister for Hajj and Umrah, Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, announced on Monday that the Umrah visa for Pakistani pilgrims will now be valid for an extended period of 90 days. The announcement was made during a joint press conference held in Islamabad, where Dr. Al-Rabiah was accompanied by his Pakistani counterpart.
This welcomed change means that Pakistani pilgrims embarking on the sacred journey of Umrah will now have an expanded window of 90 days to complete their pilgrimage. The Saudi Minister emphasized that this extension will not only allow pilgrims to perform Umrah but also offer them the opportunity to explore the historical sites of the Kingdom. Furthermore, approximately 100 additional sites in the cities of Makkah and Madina will be opened up for pilgrims to visit, enriching their spiritual experience.
In tandem with this announcement, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia solidified their cooperation in the aviation sector by signing an Air Services Agreement. The agreement aims to enhance travel connectivity between the two nations and is expected to have a positive impact, particularly for Pakistani pilgrims. The agreement was signed in the presence of Pakistan’s Caretaker Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Aneeq Ahmed.
Minister Aneeq Ahmed expressed optimism about the agreement’s potential benefits, especially for pilgrims, and emphasized the significance of the ongoing Route to Makkah project. He suggested that the project’s reach should be extended to cover all international airports in Pakistan, making the pilgrimage process even more accessible and streamlined.
During the press conference, Minister Ahmed also called for improved facilities for Pakistani pilgrims at key pilgrimage sites, such as Mina and Arafat. He further urged for the allocation of alternative land for the construction of the Pakistan House in Saudi Arabia, which would serve as a base for Pakistani pilgrims during their stay.
In addition, Minister Ahmed requested that Saudi authorities exempt Pakistani citizens over the age of 65 from biometric verification requirements, highlighting the convenience and sensitivity of such an exemption for elderly pilgrims.
Read more: Saudi Arabia Allows Nationals to Invite Foreign Friends on Personal Visit Visa for Umrah
Dr. Al-Rabiah, the Saudi Minister, assured that efforts were being made to reduce Hajj-related expenses, and he underscored the commitment to enhancing the bilateral relationship between the two nations. He acknowledged the fruitful discussions that occurred during his visit and praised the strong bond that exists between the people of Pakistan and the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques.
With this extended Umrah visa duration and the ongoing efforts to improve pilgrimage experiences, Pakistani pilgrims can look forward to an enriched and more accessible spiritual journey in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
