Saudi Minister Announces Extended Umrah Visa Duration and Expansion of Religious Sites for Pakistani Pilgrims

In a significant move to enhance religious tourism, Saudi Arabia has extended the Umrah visa duration for Pakistani pilgrims to 90 days. Dr. Tawfiq Bin Fawzan Al Rabiah, the Saudi Minister for Hajj and Umrah, made this announcement during a joint press conference with Aneeq Ahmed, the Caretaker Minister for Religious Affairs in Pakistan.

Dr. Tawfiq emphasized the Saudi government’s commitment to facilitating Pakistani pilgrims during their religious journeys. He revealed that more sites in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah would be opened for pilgrims to promote religious tourism in the country. Additionally, he shared that around 100 historical and religious places are being made accessible to visitors.

The minister highlighted the collaborative efforts between Pakistani and Saudi authorities to ensure the smooth execution of religious pilgrimages. He also discussed Riyadh’s endeavors to reduce Hajj expenses for pilgrims, fostering the strong brotherly relationship between the two nations.

During his visit to Pakistan, Dr. Tawfiq engaged in discussions on various significant matters. Notably, an agreement was signed between the civil aviation authorities of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia to increase the number of flights between the two countries.

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President Arif Alvi and Caretaker Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar also met with the Saudi minister. President Alvi emphasized the importance of further strengthening bilateral ties, particularly in the economic realm. He lauded Saudi Arabia’s support for vital Muslim causes, including the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, Palestine, and Afghanistan, within the framework of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

The Saudi minister’s visit showcased the commitment of both countries to deepening their cooperation. It underlined the significance of religious tourism and the enduring bond that unites Saudi Arabia and Pakistan based on shared faith, history, and people to people connections.