Umrah Visa UK

Saudi Umrah Visa for UK Citizens– Eligibility, Types, Cost, Processing Time, Online Application Process, and Rules

Planning Umrah from UK in 2025? Explore our comprehensive guide on Umrah Visa for British Citizens – eligibility, visa types, cost, processing time, application process, and rules.

While learning all about Umrah Visa from UK 2025 is paramount, fully grasping the significance of this deep and spiritually enriching pilgrimage is of greater importance. Umrah is a highly rewarding act of worship in Islam, which entails travel to the Holy Land of Makkah, Saudi Arabia, to perform a specific set of rituals centered around the Holy Kaaba, with the purest of intentions.

Although not mandatory like the Hajj, Umrah (referred to as the minor or lesser pilgrimage) was performed by the blessed Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) himself four times, and all Muslims are advised to follow in his footsteps. It offers the chance at a new beginning, with your sins forgiven and a stronger bond with Allah (SWT).

The following guide features comprehensive details about the Umrah visa from UK requirements, including price, types, best season to apply, and more, particularly beneficial for first-time pilgrims. It can help you understand the basics of booking the right type of visa for your Umrah from the UK, enjoying a seamless travel experience.

What Is an Umrah Visa?

An Umrah visa is an important travel document issued by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) to Muslims in the UK, allowing entry into KSA to perform Umrah, a sacred Islamic pilgrimage to Makkah.

Difference Between Hajj and Umrah Visas UK

Umrah and Hajj visas are both pivotal permits for religious travel to Saudi Arabia for the purpose of pilgrimage. However, they differ in terms of specific rituals, timing, and obligation. An Umrah visa can be obtained throughout the year for religious travel to Makkah, except during the Hajj period. Whereas, the Hajj visa is issued specifically for the mandatory annual Islamic pilgrimage of Hajj, which is one of the five pillars of Islam.

Here's a more detailed look at how these visas are different from each other:

Criteria	Hajj Visa	Umrah Visa
Timing	Available only during the Hajj season	Available year-round (excluding the Hajj season)
Obligation	It is mandatory in Islam	It is a voluntary pilgrimage
Validity	Valid only for the Hajj period	Usually valid for 90 days from the date of issuance (may vary)
Application	Applicable through authorised agencies or the Nusuk Hajj platform	Applicable through authorised agencies or official online platforms
Rituals	More extensive, longer, and specific, taking around 5 to 6 days to complete	Shorter and less extensive, can be completed in a few hours

Types of Saudi Arabia Umrah Visas for UK Citizens

Standard Umrah Visa

This is a traditional Umrah visa issued solely for the purpose of performing the minor pilgrimage in Makkah. It is generally obtained through travel agencies authorised by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah or via official platforms like Nusuk. It is a preferred choice for UK Muslims seeking a more traditional experience. The visa is typically single-entry and valid for up to 90 days from the date of issuance.

Saudi Arabia Tourist eVisa

It is a multiple-entry visa with a one-year validity, allowing UK travellers to stay in Saudi Arabia for up to 90 days per visit. It is issued primarily for tourism and family visits, but can also be used to perform Umrah. As such, you can visit Saudi Arabia as many times as you wish within the stipulated year, staying for up to 90 days per trip and exploring various cities like Jeddah, Riyadh and Al-Ula. You can also schedule time for Umrah with Ziyarat in Makkah and Madinah.

Transit/Stopover Visa with Saudia Airlines or Flynas

This is a free visa that allows you to perform Umrah during a short stopover in Saudi Arabia, with confirmed onward travel. This type of visa requires minimal processing and allows for a stay of up to 96 hours (4 days), during which you can perform your Umrah. To obtain this, you must book flights with Flynas or Saudia Airlines, and include a stopover visa in Saudi Arabia through their booking platform.

Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW)

In a recent, new initiative, the Saudi authorities have launched the Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW), valid for 180 days. It is a digital travel permit granted to citizens of certain countries, including the UK. It is a single-entry visa allowing visits for various purposes, including tourism, medical treatment, business, study, and Umrah. With faster processing, approval for an EVW is typically received within 24 hours.

Which Saudi Visa is the Best for Umrah?

Picking the right visa for your pilgrimage to the House of Allah (SWT) is key. Ordinarily, a Saudi Tourist eVisa is a convenient option for many British citizens. It permits multiple entries into the country within a year, with stays of up to 90 days per visit. This makes it suitable for Umrah, family trips, and general tourism.

However, a traditional Umrah visa is a great choice and is highly recommended, allowing for a more streamlined travel experience with full pilgrim perks. It is chiefly useful for those seeking to go to Makkah solely for pilgrimage, and the Umrah visa from UK cost is also quite reasonable. The application process is simpler, too, wherein a licensed agency handles everything from form submission to waiting for approval on your behalf.

Umrah Visa for UK Pilgrims - New Umrah Visa Rules in 2025

The following are a few highlights of the Umrah visa 2025 from UK latest news and some pivotal existing ones that all travellers must know about.

• Effective June 10, 2025, onwards, a major new rule for Umrah visas from the UK is the mandatory requirement of confirmed hotel/accommodation bookings through the official Nusuk Masar platform. You need to obtain this before applying for a visa.
• Travellers with valid UK, US, and Schengen visas and those with residency in these areas can now obtain visas upon arrival.
• Standard Umrah visas applied for by British Muslims are valid for a period of 90 days from the date of issuance. An extension is not possible.
• You must have a passport with at least a six-month validity period for your Umrah from the date of visa application.
• All applicants from the UK and elsewhere must be at least 18 years old to travel to Saudi alone. Minors need to be accompanied by parents or other acceptable legal guardians as per Saudi authorities.
• Vaccinations for COVID-19, Meningococcal ACWY, and a few others are mandatory for Umrah, according to the Saudi visa office.
• With the relaxed rules, women aged 18 to 65 can now travel to Saudi for Umrah alone without a Mahram. However, they need to carry a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their Mahram giving them permission for solo Umrah travel.

You can find more detailed information about travel to Saudi Arabia for Umrah from the UK, entry and re-entry requirements, exit permits, customs rules, general travel advisory, and more here.

Required Documents for an Umrah Visa Application from UK 2025

To apply for Umrah visa, UK pilgrims need to have the following documents ready, failing which, their application might not be processed successfully.

• A passport with a minimum of six months' validity
• Two recent passport-size photographs taken against a plain white background
• Confirmation of return flights and accommodation/hotel bookings
• Vaccination certificates as per requirement for Meningitis, COVID-19, and others
• Mahram requirements - proof of relationship with Mahram for those travelling with them
• Women aged 18 to 65 travelling alone for Umrah must have a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their Mahram, granting them permission
• Sufficient travel insurance coverage for medical expenses, theft or loss of luggage, repatriation, and other unforeseen events
• A completed Umrah visa application form filled with correct details
• Bank statement as proof of sufficient funds to travel to Saudi Arabia and back
• Travel itinerary with stay and travel details in Saudi (if required)
• National Id card or birth certificate (if required)

How to Apply for Umrah Visa Online from UK in 2025?

Option 1: Apply Through a Licensed UK Umrah Agent

Step-by-Step Process:

• Find a Registered Agency: Pick a licensed agency in the UK, authorised by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to apply for Umrah visa online.
• Select Visa-Only Service or Package Deal: The advantage of booking through a reliable Umrah agency in the UK is that you can secure excellent Umrah packages with flights, hotels, tours, and more, besides fast-tracked visa processing.
• Submit Documents: Follow the agency's guidance and provide all essential paperwork for your visa application, including recent passport-size photos, passport, etc.
• Wait for Approval: The visa experts will begin the process once you submit documents and pay the fees, and you need only to sit back and wait for the approval to come.

Option 2: Apply for a Saudi Tourist eVisa (if doing Umrah independently)

Step-by-Step Process:

• Ensure Eligibility: Check your eligibility criteria beforehand to mitigate the chances of denial or disapproval of your visa application.
• Apply Online: Go to the official Saudi eVisa portal and fill in the form with all accurate details, uploading any essential documents as asked for.
• Make Payment: Pay the current applicable fee for the eVisa using a valid debit or credit card to complete the application process.
• Receive Visa: Once you receive approval after the relevant waiting period, your Saudi eVisa will be sent to your email address.

Option 3:  Get Visa on Arrival (if eligible)

Step-by-Step Process:

• Verify Eligibility: You may be eligible for a Saudi tourist visa upon arrival if you hold a valid UK, Schengen, or US visa and meet certain criteria.
• Arrival at Entry Point: At the Saudi Arabia entry point, make your way to the passport control office or self-service kiosks (if applicable).
• Visa Processing and Payment: Apply for the visa by completing all the required formalities at the entry point. You may need to pay for the visa with a valid credit card or other specified payment methods.
• Get Your Visa: Receive your visa and enter Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah, fulfilling your pilgrimage to the House of Allah (SWT).

Processing Time for Umrah Visa from UK

The visa processing time is typically 3 to 7 working days when applying online, maybe longer depending on the travel season, public holidays, the volume of applications, etc. Therefore, plan your Umrah likewise and apply ahead, leaving enough time for the process to be completed without worries.

Umrah Visa Cost from UK - Apply Online for Umrah 2025 Visa

Average Umrah Visa Cost

The average Umrah visa from UK price typically ranges between £100 and £200, and is often included in the cost of an overall package when booking with a trustworthy agency. The total trip cost can range from around £600 to £1000, depending on various factors like the travel season, package inclusions, accommodation type (3-star or 5-star), and the number of travellers.

Book Umrah Packages with Visa from UK

All-inclusive Umrah Packages with Visa

For greater convenience, pilgrims from the UK can book well-rounded all inclusive Umrah packages with all travel essentials included in a single affordable price. Typically, such deals include visa services, round-trip flights, hotels, guided Ziyarat tours, local transfers, and Rawdah permit assistance. Many also feature insurance and extras like private transfers, additional tours, etc.

Group or Individual Umrah Package

You can book only visa services for your Umrah, or opt for package options that fit perfectly within your budget. Pick individual packages for a more elevated and private experience at nominal costs. Alternatively, select economical group Umrah packages for a more budget-friendly stay, accompanied by fellow pilgrims on their way to Makkah.

When to Book Umrah Visa Package for the Best Price

Review seasonal pricing to find the ideal time for applying for an Umrah visa from the UK. The off-peak months of Muharram to early Rabi al-Awwal following Hajj are best for budget travellers. Those who wish to go during peak months like Ramadan can book their package early, as it can be a costly time for travel to Saudi.

Can I Perform Umrah on a Tourist Visa from the UK?

Eligibility for UK Passport Holders

If you have a valid UK passport and are eligible to apply for a Saudi eVisa, you can perform Umrah with it during your visit. This type is issued primarily for tourism, family visits, etc., but allows tourists to perform the sacred lesser Islamic pilgrimage during their stay in the Holy Land.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Easy Application: Saudi tourist visas can be applied easily online from anywhere in the UK, and may also have less stringent requirements than other types of travel permits.
• Possibly Faster Processing: Visas for tourism are generally processed faster than Umrah visas, more so during peak travel seasons.
• Flexibility: You can use the tourist visa for various purposes, including family visits, sightseeing, shopping, and more, alongside Umrah.

Cons:

• Potential Stay Limitations: The permissible duration of stay within Saudi Arabia with a tourist visa is different from other types of visas, and may require visitors to adhere to the specified expiry date.
• Restrictions on Zamzam Water: Umrah pilgrims are allowed to depart with Zamzam water, which may not be possible for those arriving on tourist visas. If allowed, there may be stricter limits to the amount you can carry back home.
• Less Guidance: Umrah visas come with tailored guidance and support for the holy pilgrimage, which is typically missing when you opt for a tourist visa for your visit. It may not offer a streamlined experience like you'd expect for your Umrah.

Essential Guidelines to Follow

• Like with an Umrah visa, you are not allowed to use the Saudi tourist eVisa for Umrah during Hajj season.
• You must adhere to the same guidelines and rituals for performing Umrah, even when visiting on a tourist permit.
• Be mindful of the deadlines related to Umrah and your visa validity, particularly if visiting during peak season.
• Respect the sanctity of all holy sites in Makkah and Madinah by dressing and behaving with reverence.

Tips to Get a Saudi Umrah Visa for UK Residents

Recommended Application Time

Ideally, you should apply for your Umrah visa from the UK at least 5 to 10 business days prior to your intended travel date. It may be wise to begin the process sooner, factoring in unforeseen delays, especially if you're travelling during peak season. As such, starting early can mitigate unnecessary delays or denials.

Peak vs. Off-peak Periods

If you want to enjoy a pocket-friendly trip, book your Umrah during the affordable off-peak seasons of Muharram, Safar, Sha'ban, and Dhul-Qi'dah. These months offer fewer crowds, cheaper accommodations, and a quiet, serene atmosphere, making them perfect for Umrah.

You will enjoy a more vibrant atmosphere for Umrah if you book during peak seasons like Ramadan (best for greater rewards!) and popular school holidays like Easter and Christmas. The trip cost can be lower if you book well in advance of your preferred travel time.

Best Time to Visit Saudi Arabia for Umrah from the UK

For pleasant weather to perform Umrah, visit during September to November, as temperatures are milder and the crowds relatively fewer. December to February offers great weather, too, but prices can be higher as it is the holiday season. Ramadan is a blessed time for Umrah, and you can enjoy a low-cost trip if you plan ahead and book with a good agency.

Expert Tips to Book Affordable Umrah Packages from the UK

• Plan Ahead: Start searching for agencies in the UK that offer well-priced Umrah packages with ATOL protection. Look for early bird discounts, seasonal offers, and a wider choice of flights when you secure Umrah deals early.
• Time Your Trip: Note that prices for Umrah will fluctuate from one season to the next, so plan your travel with that in mind. Pick off-season for budget trips, or plan well in advance and enjoy peak-season Umrah at potentially lower expenses.
• Check Various Options: Compare Umrah visa services, study package inclusions, check agency reputation, and other details before zeroing in on the best Umrah travel deal for your particular requirements.
• Find Suitable Accommodation: If possible, opt for refundable hotel bookings, preventing you from losing money if there are unexpected changes or delays in your travel schedule.
• Select Good Flights: Track flight prices and grab potential deals if booking the trip yourself. Red-eye flights and those with stopovers are generally cheaper, and you may be able to enjoy First Class for less.

Travel Agencies Offering Umrah Visa Services in UK

The best Umrah visa price UK pilgrims can expect to enjoy is available only when they find a good agency to book their holy pilgrimage. A trusted Umrah agency in the UK will have all the requisite licenses and registration, approval from the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, and a high customer satisfaction level, evident in online reviews.

They will handle all your paperwork and travel logistics, ensuring you focus on the spiritual aspect of your journey and have a worry-free Umrah experience. Invariably, it's crucial to vet the available options and pick a dependable Umrah expert for planning your trip from the United Kingdom.

Trusted Saudi Arabia Umrah Visa Agent in UK- Umrah Visa from UK

We provide reliable Umrah visa services for UK pilgrims, making us trusted Saudi Arabia Umrah visa agent in England, United Kingdom. Apply online for your Umrah visa from UK with ease through our expert team.

Call Us to Book Your Umrah Package with Visa Today

Booking with reputable agencies like PlanMyUmrah will ensure your travel to Makkah and Madinah in Saudi Arabia is hassle-free, affordable, and safe. Our ethical practices guarantee you peace of mind, as we fully comprehend the significance of this holy act of worship in Islam. Here's an overview of what you can expect when you trust us to handle your Umrah arrangements:

• Streamlined Umrah visa processing, with possibility to fast-track the application
• Transparent pricing including visa service fee, and no hidden charges
• ATOL protection guaranteeing financial security against sudden flight delays or cancellations
• Flexible full Umrah packages, customised for families, solo travellers, women-only pilgrims, couples, and elderly pilgrims
• All inclusive Umrah packages featuring flights, accommodation, transport, Rawdah permit and visa assistance, Ziyarat tours, insurance, and more
• UK-Based support available 24/7 throughout the trip, from booking Umrah to travel to Saudi, and return to the UK
• Unparalleled expertise and local knowledge - partnered with the best hotels and other service providers

FAQs - Umrah Visa UK

• Can I apply for an Umrah visa online from UK?

You can easily apply for an Umrah visa online through a licensed agency in the UK like PlanMyUmrah. Alternatively, you can apply for a Saudi Tourist eVisa online or obtain a visa on arrival, depending on your eligibility.

• How long is Umrah visa valid for?

A traditional Umrah visa is valid up to 90 days from the time of issuance, and is usually single-entry. The EVW permit is valid for 180 days. The multiple-entry Saudi eVisa is valid for a year, sanctioning stays of up to 90 days per visit. The transit/stopover visa with Flynas or Saudia Airlines is valid for 4 days (96 hours).

• Do I need a Mahram to perfrom Umrah?

As per new rules, female pilgrims aged 18 to 65 can travel alone without a Mahram (male guardian) for Umrah. However, they must travel in a recognised group and carry a letter of No Objection from the Mahram, granting them permission for the solo Islamic pilgrimage.

• What is the age limit for an Umrah visa?

To apply for an Umrah visa independently, UK travellers must be at least 18 years old. Pilgrims under this age must be accompanied by a parent or another suitable legal guardian.

• Can I visit other cities like Riyadh or Jeddah on an Umrah visa?

Yes, a standard Umrah visa allows you to visit other Saudi Arabia cities like Jeddah or Riyadh during your trip. However, you must have complete hotel bookings in all cities you plan to visit, including them in travel itinerary for a worry-free sojourn.