, Nov. 1 -- Saudi Arabia is preparing to shorten the validity period of Umrah visas from three months to one month in a move aimed at better managing the growing influx of pilgrims, according to a report by Al Arabiya.net.

Citing official sources, the Saudi news outlet said the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah will soon implement the change, reducing the visa's validity to 30 days from the date of issuance. The new regulation is expected to take effect next week.

Since the beginning of the new Umrah season in early June, more than four million Umrah visas have been issued to international pilgrims - a record figure in less than five months.

Under the revised rules, a visa will be automatically cancelled 30 days after issuance if the holder f...