Saudi Umrah Visa 2025: A Complete Guide for Pilgrims

Saudi Arabia, the land of the Two Holy Mosques—Makkah and Madinah—welcomes millions of Muslims each year who wish to perform Umrah, a sacred pilgrimage and a profound act of worship. While Umrah is not obligatory like Hajj, it holds immense spiritual value and can be performed at any time of the year, except during the Hajj season.
To ensure a smooth and fulfilling spiritual journey, understanding the SAUDI UMRAH VISA process is essential. This guide explains everything you need to know in 2025 about applying for an Umrah visa, eligibility, documents required, how to apply, visa fees, rules, and tips for a safe pilgrimage.
What Is an Umrah Visa?
An Umrah visa is a type of travel authorization issued by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia that allows Muslims from around the world to enter the country and perform Umrah rituals in Makkah and visit the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah.
Unlike the Hajj visa, which is restricted to specific days of the Islamic calendar, the Umrah visa is available year-round, making it more flexible and accessible.
Types of Umrah Visas Available in 2025
There are three primary visa options that allow pilgrims to perform Umrah:
1. Traditional Umrah Visa
Issued by the Saudi Embassy through licensed Umrah travel agents in the pilgrim’s home country.
2. Tourist eVisa (for eligible countries)
Muslim citizens of more than 50 countries, including the US, UK, Canada, EU nations, Malaysia, Indonesia, and others, can perform Umrah using a Saudi tourist eVisa.
3. Transit Visa
Available to passengers flying with Saudi carriers such as Saudia or Flynas, allowing them to perform Umrah during a layover in the Kingdom (valid up to 96 hours).
Who Can Apply for an Umrah Visa?
- Muslims only are allowed to enter Makkah and Madinah and perform Umrah.
- Applicants must have a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity).
- Children can apply with their guardians.
- Women under 45 must travel with a Mahram (male guardian), unless using a tourist eVisa and coming from certain countries.
Required Documents for Umrah Visa
To apply for a traditional Umrah visa, you’ll need:
- Valid passport (6-month minimum validity)
- Recent passport-sized photo (white background)
- Completed visa application form
- Confirmed round-trip air ticket
- Hotel booking confirmation in Makkah and Madinah
- Proof of meningitis vaccination
- COVID-19 vaccination certificate (if required by current health guidelines)
- For women: Mahram's documents (if under 45)
- For tourist eVisa: credit/debit card for payment and email address
How to Apply for a Saudi Umrah Visa
Option 1: Through a Licensed Umrah Travel Agent
- Choose a reputable authorized Umrah tour operator in your country.
- Provide your passport and required documents.
- Select a package (including flights, hotel, transport, meals).
- The agent will apply on your behalf to the Saudi Embassy or consulate.
- Receive your visa stamped in passport or a digital visa copy.
Option 2: Apply Online for Tourist eVisa
Muslim travelers from eligible countries can apply for a Saudi eVisa and perform Umrah.
Steps:
- Visit the official website:
- Fill out the application
- Upload your photo and passport copy
- Pay the visa fee (usually around $120 USD)
- Receive eVisa via email (valid for 1 year, multiple entries)
Option 3: Apply for a Transit Visa
- Book a flight with Saudia or Flynas
- Select the transit visa option when booking (valid for 4 days)
- Submit your passport and travel itinerary
- Perform Umrah during your stopover
Validity and Duration of the Umrah Visa
Visa Type | Validity | Duration of Stay |
---|---|---|
Traditional Umrah Visa | 14–30 days | Single entry |
Tourist eVisa | 1 year | 90 days per visit |
Transit Visa | 90 days | 96 hours max |
Umrah Visa Fees (2025 Estimates)
Visa Type | Approximate Fee (USD) |
---|---|
Traditional Umrah Visa | $100 – $150 |
Tourist eVisa | $120 – $140 (includes insurance) |
Transit Visa | Often Free or up to $30 |
Prices may vary by country, agency charges, and optional services such as accommodation and guides.
Booking and Registration via Nusuk Platform
Saudi Arabia has introduced Nusuk—an official government platform—to simplify Umrah planning.
Visit: SAUDI VISA ESSENTIAL GUIDE
What you can do on Nusuk:
- Book Umrah permits for Masjid al-Haram
- Schedule Ziyarah in Madinah
- Reserve hotels and transport
- Get up-to-date health requirements
Nusuk is mandatory for entering the Grand Mosque during busy seasons or Ramadan.
Health and Vaccination Requirements
Before traveling, ensure you meet Saudi Arabia’s health entry rules:
Required Vaccinations:
- Meningitis (ACYW135): Mandatory for all pilgrims
- COVID-19: Must be vaccinated as per Saudi health regulations
- Seasonal Flu: Strongly recommended
Travelers should carry vaccination certificates and register with local health platforms if requested.
Important Rules for Umrah Pilgrims
- Only Muslims are allowed to enter the holy cities.
- Respect prayer times and local customs.
- Perform rituals peacefully—avoid taking selfies during Tawaf and Sa’i.
- Women must wear modest clothing and may be required to wear an Abaya.
- Don’t bring food or large bags into the mosques.
- Be cautious of scammers or unauthorized guides near holy sites.
Best Time to Perform Umrah
While Umrah can be performed anytime, the following seasons are popular:
- Ramadan – Highly spiritual and rewarding, but very crowded.
- Rabi al-Awwal – Many pilgrims visit Madinah to mark the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birth month.
- Off-Peak Months (Shawwal, Dhul-Qadah) – Less crowded and more affordable.
Avoid Hajj season (Dhul-Hijjah), as Umrah is restricted during this time.
Can Women Travel for Umrah Without a Mahram?
Yes, women over 18 from certain countries can apply for a tourist eVisa and perform Umrah without a male guardian, provided they travel in a safe and organized group.
For the traditional Umrah visa, women under 45 are generally required to be accompanied by a Mahram.
Conclusion: Begin Your Spiritual Journey with the Right Visa
Performing Umrah is a life-changing spiritual experience that brings Muslims closer to their faith and Creator. Thanks to Saudi Arabia’s modernization of visa procedures, obtaining an Umrah visa in 2025 has never been easier—whether through a licensed agent, tourist eVisa, or transit visa.
Choose the method that suits your needs, prepare your documents in advance, stay informed about health guidelines, and immerse yourself in the sacred beauty of Makkah and Madina
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