Umrah Visa for UK Citizens: What You Need to Know Before You Book
Performing Umrah is a sacred and transformative journey that every Muslim aspires to undertake. For many living in the United Kingdom, visiting the Holy Cities of Makkah and Madinah is a lifelong dream that requires spiritual preparation — and careful planning. One of the most important steps in this process is obtaining the Umrah Visa for UK citizens.
Whether you’re planning to travel during Ramadan, in the off-season, or taking advantage of a last-minute deal, understanding the Umrah Visa for UK citizens — its requirements, costs, validity, and process — is essential before you book your flights or accommodation.
This comprehensive guide explains everything UK pilgrims need to know about applying for an Umrah Visa, including eligibility, documents, application methods, the new Saudi eVisa system, and key tips to ensure a smooth journey.
1. Understanding the Umrah Visa for UK Citizens
An Umrah Visa for UK citizens is an official travel document issued by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia that allows Muslims residing in the UK to enter the country for the purpose of performing Umrah — the non-mandatory, but highly rewarding, pilgrimage that can be performed at any time of the year (unlike Hajj).
It’s important to know that the Umrah Visa for UK citizens is strictly for religious travel purposes and does not allow you to work or stay in Saudi Arabia for an extended period. The visa is usually valid for a short duration and comes with specific conditions that pilgrims must follow.
2. Types of Visas for Performing Umrah
Before applying, it’s helpful to understand the different visa options available to UK citizens who wish to perform Umrah:
- Traditional Umrah Visa
This is the dedicated Umrah Visa for UK citizens, issued through authorised travel agencies that are approved by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. It’s the most common route for pilgrims travelling with a package.
- Saudi Tourist eVisa
Introduced as part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, the Saudi Tourist eVisa allows UK citizens to perform Umrah (outside the Hajj season) without needing a traditional Umrah Visa. It’s quick to apply online and valid for one year with multiple entries.
- Umrah Visa via the Nusuk Platform
The official Nusuk (formerly Eatmarna) platform allows UK pilgrims to book Umrah services, hotels, and transportation directly and obtain their Umrah Visa electronically.
Each visa type has slightly different requirements and validity periods, which we’ll explore next.
3. Eligibility for an Umrah Visa for UK Citizens
The Saudi authorities have simplified the process, but there are still specific eligibility criteria you must meet:
- Religious Status: You must be a Muslim. Non-Muslims are not permitted to enter the Holy Cities of Makkah and Madinah.
- Nationality: You must be a British citizen with a valid UK passport.
- Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of travel.
- Age Requirement: Applicants under 18 must travel with a parent or legal guardian.
- Health Requirements: Certain vaccinations may be required (e.g., meningitis or COVID-19, depending on regulations).
- Proof of Return: You must have a confirmed return flight booking.
Meeting these criteria ensures a smooth and successful Umrah Visa for UK citizens application.
4. Required Documents for the Umrah Visa Application
Before applying for your Umrah Visa for UK citizens, make sure you have the following documents ready:
- Original passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Completed visa application form (provided by your travel agent or online)
- Recent passport-sized photographs (white background)
- Return flight ticket (showing entry and exit dates)
- Proof of hotel booking in Makkah and Madinah
- Certificate of vaccination (if applicable)
- Proof of relationship for women travelling with family members (if required)
Having these documents in order helps prevent delays in your Umrah Visa for UK citizens approval.
5. How to Apply for an Umrah Visa for UK Citizens
There are two main ways to apply for an Umrah Visa for UK citizens:
- Through an Approved Umrah Travel Agency
This is the most common and hassle-free method. Many ATOL-protected travel agencies in the UK are authorised by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to process Umrah visas.
Steps:
- Choose a licensed UK Umrah travel agent.
- Select your package (flight, hotel, and transport).
- Submit the required documents.
- The agency applies for your Umrah Visa on your behalf.
- Receive your approved visa (usually within 5–7 working days).
This option is ideal for first-time travellers, families, or those seeking convenience.
- Through the Saudi eVisa Portal (for Tourist Visa Holders)
If you prefer to arrange your own travel, you can apply for a Saudi Tourist eVisa online. This visa also allows you to perform Umrah (except during Hajj season).
Steps:
- Visit the official Saudi eVisa portal – https://visa.visitsaudi.com
- Create an account and fill out the application.
- Upload your passport copy and photograph.
- Pay the visa fee (approx. £100–£120).
- Receive your eVisa approval via email (usually within 24 hours).
This is a quick and efficient option for UK citizens looking for flexibility.
6. Validity and Duration of the Umrah Visa for UK Citizens
- The traditional Umrah Visa is valid for 90 days from the date of issue.
- Once you enter Saudi Arabia, you can stay for up to 30 days to perform Umrah and visit Madinah.
- The Tourist eVisa, however, is valid for 1 year with multiple entries, allowing stays of up to 90 days per visit.
It’s important to perform your Umrah and exit the country before your visa expires, as overstaying can result in fines or travel bans.
7. Processing Time for the Umrah Visa
The processing time for an Umrah Visa for UK citizens depends on the method you use:
- Through an agency: 5–7 working days on average.
- Through eVisa portal: Usually within 24 hours.
However, during busy seasons like Ramadan or December holidays, it’s best to apply early to avoid delays.
8. Cost of the Umrah Visa for UK Citizens
The cost of the Umrah Visa for UK citizens varies depending on the application route:
- Traditional Umrah Visa: Usually included in your Umrah package, but separately it may cost between £100 – £150.
- Saudi Tourist eVisa: Around £100 – £120, plus insurance and service fees.
Some travel agencies offer all-inclusive Umrah packages where the visa, flights, hotels, and transport are bundled together, providing better value.
9. Can UK Citizens Perform Umrah on a Tourist Visa?
Yes — this is one of the most significant updates for pilgrims. Since 2019, UK citizens can perform Umrah using a Saudi Tourist eVisa, provided it’s not during the Hajj season.
This option offers greater flexibility and is ideal for pilgrims who want to:
- Combine Umrah with tourism (e.g., visiting Jeddah or Taif).
- Avoid waiting for a traditional Umrah Visa.
- Make multiple visits within a year.
However, note that you cannot perform Hajj using a tourist visa — only Umrah outside Hajj season.
10. Health and Vaccination Requirements
Health regulations may change, but as of recent guidance, the following are commonly required for the Umrah Visa for UK citizens:
- Meningitis (ACWY) vaccination certificate
- COVID-19 vaccination (if required by Saudi authorities)
- Seasonal flu vaccine (recommended, not mandatory)
Always confirm with your travel agent or the Saudi Embassy in London before travelling.
11. Travelling for Umrah as a Family or Group
If you’re applying for the Umrah Visa for UK citizens as a family or group, the process is straightforward:
- Each family member must have a separate passport and visa.
- Children must be accompanied by parents or guardians.
- Married couples may be required to provide a marriage certificate (if requested).
Traveling with family can often qualify you for discounted group Umrah packages, where the visa processing is handled together.
12. Important Things to Know Before You Book
Before you book your Umrah package or flights, here are key factors to keep in mind regarding the Umrah Visa for UK citizens:
- Choose an ATOL-Protected Agency
Only book through licensed agencies that are ATOL-protected. This ensures financial protection if your tour operator cancels or fails.
- Confirm Visa Inclusions
Some packages exclude visa fees. Always confirm whether your package includes the Umrah Visa or if it must be paid separately.
- Verify Hotel and Flight Details
Ensure your booking aligns with your visa validity. Flights must match the dates allowed under your Umrah Visa for UK citizens.
- Check the Validity Period
The visa is valid for 90 days — but the stay duration inside Saudi Arabia is limited to 30 days. Plan your trip accordingly.
- Monitor Entry Regulations
Regulations may change, especially regarding vaccinations or travel restrictions. Always verify the latest requirements from official sources before travelling.
13. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying too early: The visa is valid for 90 days, so applying too early may cause it to expire before your trip.
- Overstaying: Make sure to exit Saudi Arabia before your visa expires.
- Ignoring vaccination rules: Missing health requirements can lead to visa rejection.
- Using unauthorised agents: Avoid scammers offering “instant visas.” Only use registered agencies.
- Not checking travel insurance: Always get travel insurance that includes medical and trip protection for Umrah pilgrims.
14. What Happens If Your Visa Is Rejected?
If your Umrah Visa for UK citizens is rejected, it could be due to:
- Incorrect documentation
- Expired passport
- Incomplete application
- Previous visa violations
You can usually reapply after correcting the issue. Working through a licensed travel agent reduces the risk of rejection significantly.
By following this guide, you can ensure that your Umrah journey from the UK in 2026 is organized, comfortable, and spiritually enriching. Choosing the right Umrah package UK 2026 will allow you to focus on worship, reflection, and the sacred experience of visiting Makkah and Madinah.
15. Extending or Reapplying for the Umrah Visa
You cannot extend an Umrah Visa once it expires. However, if you wish to perform Umrah again, you may reapply for a new visa after returning to the UK.
For frequent travellers, the Saudi Tourist eVisa offers better flexibility with multiple entries.
16. Useful Tips for UK Pilgrims Applying for Umrah Visa
- Apply at least 2–3 weeks before your planned travel date.
- Ensure your passport has blank visa pages.
- Print and carry physical copies of your visa and hotel bookings.
- Keep emergency contact details for your travel agent and the UK Embassy in Riyadh.
- Stay updated on Saudi entry requirements through official websites.
17. Useful Links for Umrah Visa for UK Citizens
- Official Saudi eVisa Portal: https://visa.visitsaudi.com
- Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah: https://www.haj.gov.sa
- Saudi Embassy in London: https://embassies.mofa.gov.sa/sites/uk
These official sites provide accurate, up-to-date information about the Umrah Visa for UK citizens and other travel requirements.
18. Final Checklist Before You Book
Before confirming your Umrah trip, make sure you’ve completed the following checklist:
19. Conclusion: Prepare Spiritually and Practically
Performing Umrah is a deeply rewarding journey, and getting the Umrah Visa for UK citizens is the first step in making that dream a reality. With simplified online processes and multiple visa options, UK Muslims can now travel to Saudi Arabia with greater ease and flexibility than ever before.
By understanding the visa requirements, eligibility, and application process, you can avoid common pitfalls and ensure a stress-free experience. Whether you’re applying through a trusted travel agent or directly via the Saudi eVisa portal, proper planning will help you focus entirely on your prayers, tawaf, and spiritual growth.