Saudi Arabia has announced an extension of visitor visas until April 18, 2026, for people unable to leave the kingdom due to ongoing regional tensions following attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran.
The announcement was made by the Saudi Ministry of Interior in a statement shared on social media.
Visa Status Regularized for Stranded Visitors
According to the ministry, authorities have begun processing the status of visa holders whose permits expired on or after February 25.
The decision covers multiple visa categories, including:
- Visit visas
- Umrah visas
- Transit visas
- Final exit visas
Officials said the measure aims to assist visitors who were unable to leave Saudi Arabia due to disruptions caused by the regional situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
For completing the procedures of visa holders whose visas expired as of 8/9/1447 AH, corresponding to 25/2/2026 AD, and who were unable to depart the Kingdom due to the current situation in the region. pic.twitter.com/ssqiVIOp0w
— وزارة الداخلية 🇸🇦 (@MOISaudiArabia) March 25, 2026
Departure Process Simplified
The ministry said beneficiaries can go directly to the departure port, where exit procedures will be completed smoothly without the need for prior approvals.
Authorities also confirmed that no additional fees will be charged for those leaving under this arrangement.
The service will remain available until 1 Dhul-Qa’dah 1447 AH, corresponding to April 18, 2026, and visitors must depart before this deadline to benefit from the extension.
Regional Air Travel Disrupted
Air travel across the Middle East has faced major disruption following continued air strikes linked to the escalating conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
Several key aviation hubs, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha, have either closed temporarily or imposed heavy restrictions as large sections of regional airspace remain inaccessible.
According to the flight-tracking platform FlightAware, thousands of flights have been affected across the region.
Airlines from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East have cancelled or rerouted flights to avoid restricted airspace, leading to longer travel times and higher fuel costs.
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