Seputarkarawang.com - Karawang, The Saudi Arabian government has officially set a firm limit for all international Umrah pilgrims to leave the kingdom's territory no later than April 18 2026. This deadline coincides with 1 Zulkaidah 1447 Hijriah, which marks the official end of this year's Umrah season. This policy issued by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is part of a routine annual cycle to prepare for the 1447 AH Hajj pilgrimage.The determination of the return limit has sparked various speculation on social media, but the Saudi Arabian authorities firmly deny that there is any connection with security or geopolitical issues in the Middle East. Through the official information channel @insideharamain, the local government emphasized that this regulation is purely a regular seasonal transition so that the government can focus on welcoming millions of Hajj pilgrims from all over the world. Claims linking this policy to the security situation are stated to be false and misleading information
Based on the operational calendar that has been prepared, the closing phase of the Umrah season is carried out in stages to ensure a smooth outflow of pilgrims. This process started with the termination of the issuance of Umrah visas on 1 Shawwal 1447 AH, followed by the deadline for the arrival of new pilgrims to the holy land on 15 Shawwal 1447 AH. Thus, all pilgrims who are currently still in Saudi Arabia are advised to immediately arrange a return schedule in accordance with applicable regulations. Karawang, to remain calm and not be consumed by baseless rumors. Congregants are expected to only refer to official information sources from the royal government to avoid confusion in data. Compliance with this return schedule is very crucial so that the transition process towards the Hajj season can run in an orderly and smooth manner without administrative obstacles. For Karawang residents who have relatives or family who are carrying out the Umrah pilgrimage in the month of Shawwal, it is recommended to immediately check return tickets so as not to exceed the 1 Zulkaidah limit. The Saudi Arabian government ensures that all service facilities will remain optimal until the last day of the Umrah pilgrims' return, while preparing the best infrastructure to welcome the Hajj season which will soon arrive.