Saudi Arabia's New Umrah Visa Boosts Afghan Pilgrimages

The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah introduced a one-year, multiple-entry Umrah visa in late July 2026, replacing the previous single-entry permit valid for only 90 days. This change has led to a notable increase in pilgrimage bookings from Afghanistan, with travel agents in Kabul reporting a surge in interest.

Sayed Malook Pasarly, manager at an Umrah service in Kabul, stated that the new visa has transformed the mood among clients, as the old system restricted quotas to individual agencies. The updated rules allow all licensed operators to access the market.

Mohammad Rasol, a 48-year-old preparing for travel, noted the expedited process under the new regulations. Additionally, Wahid Zazai, manager of a tourism agency in Kabul, observed a trend of young couples choosing to marry during their Umrah trips, as the cost of an Umrah package is significantly lower than traditional wedding ceremonies in Afghanistan.

Despite rising airfares, overall travel numbers are increasing.