- Saudi Arabia introduced a one-year, multiple-entry Umrah visa in late July 2026, replacing a previous single-entry permit valid for 90 days, according to the report
- Afghan travel agents report a surge in bookings, with older pilgrims making up most new travellers despite return airfares rising to US$800 (approximately KSh 103,200)
- Some Afghan couples are choosing to marry during Umrah trips, with packages for a couple and their parents costing around US$7,000 (approximately KSh 903,000), compared with more than US$15,000 (approximately KSh 1.94 million) for some traditional Kabul weddings
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Saudi Arabia's changes to its Umrah visa system have prompted a reported increase in pilgrimages from Afghanistan, with travel agents in Kabul recording a wave of new bookings since the reforms took effect.
Source: Getty Images
As reported by Arab News on Tuesday, October 13, 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, which was valid for only 90 days.
The new visa applies to travellers who book through approved agents.
In Afghanistan, where embassy access and logistical delays had left some prospective pilgrims waiting months or years, the change has been welcomed by travel operators and their clients.
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Sayed Malook Pasarly, manager at Ar-Rahman Travel and Umrah Service in Kabul, said the change had improved the experience for his clients. He has worked in the travel industry for more than a decade.
He stated:
"This year (2026) is much better compared to the past.
"People are happy now, very happy, about this process and the ease with the visa system."
Pasarly also explained that the previous arrangement restricted quotas for individual agencies, while the updated rules open access to all licensed operators.
Mohammad Rasol, 48, who is preparing to travel soon, said the new process moved quickly.
"Now, it is easier," he said. "I applied, and within a week I had the good news."
Gul Marjan Hakimi, 50, who plans to make the journey with his wife, described the experience as "smooth," adding:
"The visa is for a full year, so we can go again, if God gives us the chance."
Afghan Couples Choose Cheaper Umrah Weddings
One notable trend emerging from the new rules is a rise in Afghan couples choosing to marry during Umrah trips rather than holding traditional ceremonies at home.
Wahid Zazai, manager of King Global Travel and Tourism in Kabul, said he had seen a growing number of young couples booking packages to exchange vows at Masjid Al-Haram in Makkah.
"Last week, we had two couples from Parwan province," Zazai said. "They wanted to go to Umrah and get married there. When they return, they will make a small ceremony, and that is their wedding party."
Cost plays a significant role in the trend. According to Zazai, a wedding at one of Kabul's upscale halls can cost more than US$15,000 (approximately KSh 1.94 million), while an Umrah package for a couple and their parents costs roughly US$7,000 (approximately KSh 903,000).
The package is therefore considerably cheaper than some traditional wedding celebrations, although the actual cost depends on the arrangements and services included.
"It is easier, better, and cheaper," Zazai said. "This culture is getting stronger."
Older Afghans Drive Umrah Travel Surge
Despite the reported increase in bookings, the cost of travelling to Saudi Arabia has also risen.
Round-trip airfares have climbed to about US$800 (approximately KSh 103,200), up from roughly US$400 (approximately KSh 51,600) in previous years.
Even with the higher fares, travel operators say demand is increasing. Zazai, whose company arranges both family packages and group trips for dozens of travellers, said older Afghans account for the majority of new pilgrims.
He said:
"Afghans are going more than before to Umrah. Younger Afghans are fewer... The majority are older ones."
The reported increase in bookings highlights how changes to visa arrangements can affect religious travel, family plans and businesses serving pilgrims.
For Afghan travellers, the one-year, multiple-entry visa could offer greater flexibility for repeat visits, subject to the applicable entry conditions and permitted length of stay.
Travellers should confirm the current requirements with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah or an authorised travel agent before making bookings.
Source: Legit.ng
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