The length of the Umrah visa for Pakistani pilgrims has been increased to 90 days by Saudi Arabia. Dr. Tawfig bin Fawzan Al Rabiah, the visiting Saudi Minister for Hajj and Umrah, and Aneeq Ahmed, the interim Minister for Religious Affairs of Pakistan, made the announcement at a joint press conference.
Dr. Tawfig emphasised that this action aims to improve ties between the nations and ease Hajj and Umrah for Pakistani believers. To further encourage religious tourism, Saudi Arabia is opening new locations in Makkah and Madinah, including 100 historic and sacred sites.
Both parties recognised the upward trend in the bilateral relationship, with the Saudi minister praising Pakistan’s standing as a reliable ally of Saudi Arabia. It was applauded that the Kingdom was dedicated to making excellent arrangements for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, and hopes were expressed that Pakistani pilgrims would continue to receive preferential treatment.