According to the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, overseas pilgrims who wish to perform Umrah are not required to show a negative PCR or rapid antigen test report upon arrival.
International worshippers do not need to take the PCR test, according to the ministry. With the start of the new Umrah season five days ago, this move aims to ease restrictions for Umrah pilgrims. Health insurance to cover COVID-19 treatment costs is still required for foreign pilgrims performing Umrah rituals in the Kingdom.
Umrah visa holders can stay up to 90 days, during which time they can travel to Mecca, Medina and other Saudi cities. For foreign pilgrims, the ministry has introduced an online Umrah programme. This programme is available directly to pilgrims during the new annual Umrah season without the need for an intermediary.
A variety of e-platforms for Umrah services are approved for the issuance of Umrah visas.
Unvaccinated worshippers may pray in the Grand Mosque in Mecca and Prophet Mohammed's Mosque in Medina and obtain permits via the app Eatmarna provided they are not infected or have not contacted a COVID-19 patient.
