Saudi Arabia has introduced a new one-year, multiple-entry Umrah visa for expatriates, allowing eligible foreign residents to visit the country for religious purposes multiple times within a year. This development is based on the announcement reported by Saudi Expatriates on July 20, 2026.1
WHY THIS MATTERS
The new one-year, multiple-entry Umrah visa may significantly affect global mobility programs and expatriate employees residing in Saudi Arabia and other countries. Organizations with expatriates in the region may face new compliance considerations related to religious travel, including documentation requirements and potential changes to employee mobility planning. The visa is expected to streamline entry procedures for religious purposes and may reduce administrative barriers for expatriates who wish to perform Umrah more than once within a year.
Key Highlights
- Visa validity: The visa is valid for one year from the date of issuance, allowing multiple entries for Umrah purposes during that period.
- Eligibility: The announcement specifies that expatriates are eligible, though further details on qualifying criteria and application procedures are not provided in the source.
- Application process: Information regarding the application process, required documentation, and fees is not detailed in the provided materials.
- Purpose: The visa is intended solely for performing Umrah and does not extend to other travel purposes or employment.
KPMG INSIGHTS
In light of the change, employers might wish to consider the following:
- Employers may review whether internal travel guidance addresses employee requests for support with religious travel documentation and leave planning.
- HR and global mobility teams could monitor official Saudi government channels for confirmation of eligibility criteria, application procedures, fees, and any restrictions on visa use.
- Employers may remind employees that the visa appears to be for Umrah-related travel and should not be treated as authorization for employment or other activities unless official guidance confirms otherwise.
If assignees and/or their programme managers have any questions or concerns about the scope of the update, they should consult with their qualified immigration professional or a member of the GMS/People Services team with KPMG in the Lower Gulf (see the Contacts section).
ENDNOTE:
1 Saudi Expatriates, “Saudi Arabia announces multiple-entry Umrah Visa with 365-Day Validity.”
Contacts
Disclaimer
* Please note the KPMG International member firm in the United States does not provide immigration or labour law services. However, KPMG Law LLP in Canada can assist clients with U.S. immigration matters.
The information contained in this newsletter was submitted by the KPMG International member firm in the United Arab Emirates.
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