Saudi Arabia extends visa deadlines, allows exit without fines amid conflict: What stranded travellers need to do before April 18

In a latest development, Saudi Arabia has announced to extend visa deadlines, it’s a news that comes as a relief for stranded travellers. As travel is disrupted across the Gulf, Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) has launched a major relief measure. As per information shared on X, the visa deadlines have been extended while allowing penalty-free exits for those unable to leave on time because of the ongoing crisis in the Middle East. The official advisory shared on X reads (translated version):“Jawazat confirmed that it has started extending expired visas from 8/9/1447 AH (corresponding to February 25, 2026), based on requests from the beneficiaries. The extension will continue until 1/11/1447 AH (April 18, 2026), after payment of the prescribed fees through the Absher platform.”A dual relief for travellersIn its latest official advisory, Jawazat confirmed that holders of different visa categories which include Umrah visas, visitor visas, transit visas, and final exit permits, stranded travellers whose visas expired on or after February 25, 2026, can now either extend their stay or leave the country. No fine included, which is great news.The visa extension window will remain open until April 18, 2026. Extensions can be processed digitally through the Absher platform. It can be done after payment of applicable fees.No fines, a major highlightSaudi authorities have allowed affected travellers to exit the Kingdom without renewing their visas or paying any fines for overstaying. Travellers can leave via any international air, land, or sea port.