Essential Information for UK Pilgrims
Planning to Al Maknoon Travels from the UK? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about obtaining an Umrah visa to enter Saudi Arabia. Whether you're considering an e-visa, tourist visa, or dedicated Umrah visa, we'll help you navigate the application process, understand visa types, and ensure your pilgrimage journey is smooth and hassle-free.
Saudi Arabia has simplified its visa process to welcome pilgrims and international visitors from across the globe. For UK residents planning to perform Umrah, it’s important to understand the different visa options and how each application works. The Kingdom now offers several ways to obtain a visa, including the convenient electronic visa waiver and traditional applications through authorized travel agents.
This guide covers every step of the Umrah visa process— from documents required and processing times to visa fees and travel planning. Whether it’s your first Umrah or a return visit, you’ll find everything you need to secure your visa and prepare for your blessed journey to Makkah and Medina.
Understanding Saudi Arabia Visa Types for UK Residents
Saudi Arabia provides multiple visa options for UK residents wishing to perform Umrah. Knowing these choices will help you select the most appropriate visa for your pilgrimage while ensuring full compliance with the Kingdom’s immigration requirements.
Tourist E-Visa
The most common choice for UK pilgrims, this e-visa allows multiple entries and remains valid for one year, with each visit lasting up to 90 days. It is ideal for those wishing to travel for Umrah outside the Hajj season.
Validity: 1 year, multiple entries
Duration: Up to 90 days per visit
Processing: 24-48 hours
Dedicated Umrah Visa
Specifically designed for pilgrims who wish to perform Umrah, this visa is issued through authorized agents and is usually valid for a shorter duration, focused on the pilgrimage period.
Validity: 15-30 days typically
Purpose: Umrah only
Processing: 3-5 business days
Electronic Visa Waiver
A convenient option for UK nationals, the electronic visa waiver permits a single entry with a stay of up to 6 months. It is available to travelers from eligible countries, including the UK.
Validity: 6 months single entry
Processing: Instant approval
Purpose: Tourism, Umrah
Important: Hajj vs Umrah Visa Distinction
While tourist visa and Umrah visa options allow you to Al Maknoon Travels throughout the year, they do NOT permit you to perform Hajj. Hajj requires a separate visa - the Hajj visa - which is only issued during the official Hajj season and through authorized Hajj operators. Pilgrims attempting to perform Hajj on other visa types risk being deported from the Kingdom.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Applying for your Umrah visa as a UK resident is straightforward when you follow the correct procedures. The processing time varies depending on your chosen visa type, but most applications are completed within days rather than weeks.
Choose Your Visa Type
Determine whether you need a tourist visa, dedicated Umrah visa, or electronic visa waiver based on your travel plans. Consider factors like duration of stay, multiple entries requirements, and whether you plan to visit Saudi Arabia for purposes beyond Umrah.
Prepare Required Documents
Gather all required documents including your passport (with minimum 6 months validity), photographs, vaccination certificates, and travel itinerary. Ensure all documents are valid and meet Saudi Arabia's specifications.
Complete Application
Submit your application through official channels - either the Saudi e-visa portal for tourist visa applications or through authorized agents for dedicated Umrah visa applications. Ensure all information is accurate to avoid delays.
Pay Visa Fee
Pay the applicable visa fee using accepted payment methods. The visa fee varies by visa type and typically includes mandatory health insurance coverage for your stay in Saudi Arabia.
Await Processing
Wait for your visa to be processed. Tourist visa applications typically take 24-48 hours, while dedicated Umrah visa applications may require 3-5 business days. Apply well in advance of your intended travel dates.
Receive and Verify
Once approved, download and print your visa. Verify all details are correct, including name, passport number, validity dates, and entry permissions. Keep multiple copies for your travel.
Pro Tip: Plan Ahead
While e-visa applications are processed quickly, it's recommended to apply at least 1-2 weeks in advance to allow for any unexpected delays or document requirements. This is especially important during peak Umrah seasons and Ramadan.
Required Documents for Umrah Visa Application
Proper documentation is essential for a successful visa application. The required documents may vary slightly depending on your chosen visa type and the application method you use.
| Document Type | Requirements | Tourist/E-Visa | Dedicated Umrah |
|---|---|---|---|
| Passport | Minimum 6 months validity from entry date | ||
| Photograph | Recent passport-size, white background | ||
| Travel Itinerary | Flight bookings and hotel reservations | ||
| Vaccination Certificate | Meningitis (ACWY) - mandatory | ||
| Health Insurance | Included in visa fee or separate policy | ||
| UK Residency Proof | For UK residents (non-citizens) |
Vaccination Requirements
- • Meningitis ACWY vaccine (mandatory for all pilgrims)
- • Must be administered at least 10 days before entry
- • Certificate must be valid and in English or Arabic
- • Additional vaccines may be recommended by health authorities
Document Verification
- • All documents must be clear and legible
- • Translations may be required for non-English documents
- • Keep original documents for entry to Saudi Arabia
- • Some documents may require attestation
Visa Fees and Costs for UK Residents
Understanding the cost structure for your Umrah visa helps you budget effectively for your pilgrimage. The visa fee varies depending on the visa type and application method you choose.
Tourist E-Visa
SAR 535 (including insurance)
- • 1-year validity
- • Multiple entries
- • 90 days per visit
- • Includes health insurance
Dedicated Umrah Visa
Varies by agent and duration
- • 15-30 days typically
- • Umrah specific
- • Agent processing
- • May include services
Electronic Visa Waiver
SAR 480 (on arrival)
- • 6 months single entry
- • UK nationals only
- • No advance application
- • Insurance separate
Additional Costs to Consider
- • Hotel reservations in Makkah and Medina
- • Flight tickets to Jeddah or other airports
- • Travel insurance (if not included)
- • Transportation within Saudi Arabia
- • Vaccination costs
- • Agent service fees (if applicable)
- • Express processing charges
- • Document preparation costs
Eligible Countries and Entry Arrangements
Saudi Arabia has expanded its visa program to include numerous eligible countries, with the UK being a priority nation for both e-visa and electronic visa waiver programs. Understanding entry requirements helps ensure smooth arrival and processing.
Approved Entry Points
Pilgrims holding Umrah visa or tourist visa can enter Saudi Arabia through these designated airports:
- • Jeddah King Abdulaziz International Airport
- • Madinah Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz Airport
- • Riyadh King Khalid International Airport
- • Dammam King Fahd International Airport
- • Other international airports with approval
Special Provisions for UK
As one of the eligible countries, the UK enjoys several benefits:
- • Electronic visa waiver availability
- • Visa on arrival options
- • Streamlined processing for e-visa
- • Multiple entries permitted
- • Extended stay durations
Important Entry Requirements
All travelers must ensure their passport meets minimum requirements and that they carry all necessary documents. The ministry of interior reserves the right to refuse entry if requirements are not met.
- • Passport must be valid for minimum 6 months
- • All required documents must be presented
- • Vaccination certificates must be current
- • Visa must match purpose of visit
Hajj Season and Umrah Restrictions
Planning your Umrah journey requires understanding the annual Hajj season restrictions. During specific periods, Umrah services may be suspended to accommodate Hajj pilgrims, and different visa rules apply.
When Umrah is Available
Umrah can be performed year-round except during the official Hajj period:
- • January - May: Peak Umrah season
- • Ramadan: Highly sought-after period
- • September - November: Post-Hajj season
- • December: Before Hajj restrictions
Hajj Season Restrictions
During Hajj season (typically 6-8 weeks):
- • Umrah services suspended
- • Only Hajj visa holders can enter
- • Tourist visa entry restricted
- • E-visa applications may be paused
Recommended Travel Periods
For the best Umrah experience, consider traveling during off-peak periods when crowds are smaller and services are more readily available. The ministry provides regular updates on Umrah availability and any temporary restrictions through official channels.
| Period | Umrah Status | Crowd Level | Visa Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ramadan | Available | Very High | All types |
| Post-Ramadan | Available | Moderate | All types |
| Hajj Season | Suspended | Hajj only | Hajj visa only |
| Off-Peak | Available | Low | All types |
Essential Travel Preparation Tips
Successful Umrah preparation extends beyond securing your visa. These essential tips will help ensure your pilgrimage journey to Saudi Arabia is smooth, meaningful, and hassle-free.
Pre-Travel Checklist
Documentation
- • Visa confirmation and printouts
- • Passport with sufficient validity
- • Vaccination certificates
- • Travel insurance documentation
- • Hotel reservations confirmations
Health Preparation
- • Complete required vaccinations
- • Consult healthcare provider
- • Pack necessary medications
- • Understand climate conditions
- • Prepare for physical demands
Upon Arrival Tips
Airport Procedures
- • Have all documents readily available
- • Be prepared for biometric scanning
- • Respect local customs and dress code
- • Keep contact information handy
- • Understand local transportation options
In the Holy Cities
- • Respect prayer times and protocols
- • Stay hydrated and take breaks
- • Keep identification with you always
- • Be aware of crowd management procedures
- • Contact embassy if issues arise
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a tourist visa to Al Maknoon Travels?
Yes, UK residents can use a tourist visa or e-visa to Al Maknoon Travels throughout the year, except during the official Hajj season. The tourist visa offers flexibility with multiple entries and longer validity periods.
How long does visa processing take?
E-visa applications typically have a processing time of 24-48 hours, while dedicated Umrah visa applications through agents may take 3-5 business days. Apply well in advance to avoid any delays.
Can I visit multiple times with one visa?
Yes, the tourist visa and e-visa allow multiple entries within the validity period. You can visit Saudi Arabia several times for Umrah or other permitted activities, with each stay limited to 90 days.
What's the difference between Umrah and Hajj visas?
Umrah visa or tourist visa allows you to Al Maknoon Travels year-round but not Hajj. Hajj visa is a separate visa type only available during Hajj season through authorized operators. Attempting to perform Hajj on other visa types can result in deportation.
Do I need hotel reservations before applying?
Yes, hotel reservations in Saudi Arabia are typically required as part of your application. You should have confirmed bookings for your accommodation in Makkah, Medina, or other cities you plan to visit.
Can UK residents use the electronic visa waiver?
Yes, UK nationals can use the electronic visa waiver for single entry visits up to 6 months. This option is available for UK passport holders and can be obtained upon arrival or through the online system.