1. Visa validity change — plan dates carefully

In a recent policy change, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah reduced the period in which an issued Umrah visa remains valid for entry: visas will be automatically cancelled if not used within 30 days of issuance. This is intended to manage pilgrim flows and reduce unused visas. Indian applicants should avoid applying far in advance of their confirmed travel dates. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

2. Nusuk / Hotel & transport verification — what Indian pilgrims must know

Saudi digital platforms (Nusuk / Nusuk Masar) are central to verifying hotel bookings and transport before visa approvals. Many reports in 2025 emphasise that unchecked or unverified bookings may delay visas. Indian applicants typically apply through licensed local agents who upload and verify these bookings on the platform. Always ask your agent for proof of upload/verification before visa submission. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

3. Flights — expanding direct connectivity from India

Airlines are adding routes between Indian cities and Saudi hubs. New direct services (for example, IndiGo’s Bengaluru–Riyadh route) are improving access and reducing overall travel time for pilgrims from different regions of India. Direct flights are particularly valuable for elderly or less mobile pilgrims, though they can fill fast during peak seasons. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

Tip: compare direct vs connecting routings for total travel time and layover convenience, not only price.

4. Capacity & scheduling — seats are increasing but demand is high

Saudi aviation and tourism plans for 2025 include major seat increases to accommodate more pilgrims — airlines and authorities announced new routes and seat allocations this year. While overall capacity is rising, peak periods (Ramadan, school holidays) still see rapid sellouts on preferred flights and hotel slots. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

5. What Indian pilgrims should do now — short checklist

1. Confirm your travel dates before applying for a visa — remember the 30-day entry validity. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
2. Ask your travel agent to upload and verify hotel + transport bookings on Nusuk (or the mandated Saudi platform) and request proof. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
3. Secure flight tickets — direct routes are expanding but fill fast; hold seats and get written confirmations. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
4. Carry printed e-visa, passport copies, vaccination records and travel insurance documents; keep driver/transfer contacts.

6. Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I apply for my Umrah visa very early to lock in price?
A: Due to the new 30-day entry validity, applying too early risks automatic cancellation if plans change. Coordinate visa timing closely with confirmed flight and hotel verification. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}

Q: Can I upload hotels on Nusuk directly from India?
A: Indian pilgrims generally work through authorised travel agents who perform the platform uploads and verification — check with your agent. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}

7. How UmrahOne.id can assist Indian pilgrims

We monitor policy changes daily and help by verifying hotel uploads, holding flight seats, arranging verified transport, and advising on visa timing to avoid cancellations. Contact us for a travel-readiness review and step-by-step support.