JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah confirmed the possibility of issuing Umrah and visit permits to residents coming from the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, who obtained a visitor visa for the purpose of tourism through the Etmarna app.
This comes as part of efforts to facilitate the arrival of pilgrims from all countries around the world, enrich their experience and raise the quality of services provided to them within a variety of solutions and options, in order to achieve the objectives of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, the ministry said in a statement issued by the Saudi Press Agency.
The ministry said that those who obtained visitor visas for the purpose of tourism from residents of GCC countries, as well as those who obtained visas to enter the Schengen countries, the US, and UK, can, before coming to the Kingdom, book appointments to perform Umrah and visit holy sites using the app.
The procedures for the arrival of pilgrims to perform Umrah this year included several types of visas available to those who obtain them to perform Umrah, including visas for family visits for residents inside the Kingdom, personal visits to Saudi nationals, electronic tourist visas, and tourist visas upon arrival for holders of other types of visas.
Umrah pilgrims coming from outside the Kingdom can choose the package of services through the “Maqam” platform, in addition to booking through local agencies approved in the pilgrim’s home country.
Saudi Arabia to issue Umrah, visit permits for GCC residents who obtained tourist visa via app
https://arab.news/rxnyf
Saudi Arabia to issue Umrah, visit permits for GCC residents who obtained tourist visa via app
- This comes as part of efforts to facilitate the arrival of pilgrims from all countries around the world
- Umrah pilgrims coming from outside the Kingdom can choose the package of services through the “Maqam” platform
Taif festival celebrates Saudi Arabia’s literary icons
- It introduces visitors to the contributions of literary pioneers through accessible visual and narrative content
TAIF: A special section highlighting key Saudi literary figures forms part of the Writers and Readers Festival in Taif.
The area explores the lives of distinguished writers, poets, and authors who have shaped the Kingdom’s creative landscape, influencing literature, journalism, theater and intellectual thought.
It introduces visitors to the contributions of literary pioneers through accessible visual and narrative content, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.
Organized by the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, the festival runs until Jan. 15 and features 42 prominent publishing houses from Saudi Arabia and overseas, offering visitors the chance to explore the latest works in literature, philosophy and general knowledge.
Meanwhile, the festival’s interactive murals section engages visitors with openwork art panels, allowing them to contribute to the city’s features and identity.
The murals depict Taif’s natural and historical landmarks, including Al-Hada Mountain, the Taif rose gardens, and traditional Hijazi palaces. Others are inspired by Souq Okaz, a historic literary and commercial center linked to the region’s poetic heritage.
Designed by a visual artist, they blend folk-inspired elements with imaginative expression, creating a collaborative experience that celebrates the city’s beauty and brings art closer to the public.
