Before you go
Visas for Umrah
Umrah, tourist and transit visas compared, the rules for GCC residents, and how to apply.
Visa rules change often. Always check the official platforms linked at the bottom of this page before you book.
The three main options
Umrah visa
- For Umrah and visiting Madinah
- Usually arranged through a licensed agent or the Nusuk platform
- Typically allows a stay of up to 90 days
- Cannot be extended
Tourist eVisa
- For eligible nationalities, applied for online
- Multiple entry, valid for one year
- Umrah is allowed outside the Hajj season
- Lets you travel anywhere in Saudi Arabia
Transit (stopover) visa: some airlines offer a short stopover visa that also allows Umrah. Check with your airline.
Umrah visa vs tourist visa
| Umrah visa | Tourist eVisa | |
|---|---|---|
| Apply | Licensed agent or Nusuk | Online, yourself |
| Entries | Usually single | Multiple, for a year |
| Where you can go | Makkah, Madinah, Jeddah and more | Anywhere in the country |
| Hotels | Often booked as part of a package | Book independently |
| Good for | Packages, first-time pilgrims, groups | Independent travellers, repeat visits |
GCC residents
Residents of the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and Oman can usually apply online, and may be eligible for a tourist visa on arrival. Many drive across the border.
How to apply for the tourist eVisa
Check eligibility
Use the official visa platform to confirm your nationality qualifies.Create an account
Enter your personal and passport details.Upload documents
Passport (valid 6+ months), a recent photo, and your accommodation details.Pay
The fee includes mandatory medical insurance. Pay by card.Receive the eVisa
Usually by email within minutes to a day. Print it and keep it on your phone.
Applying through an agent
Bring your passport (valid 6+ months), photos, meningitis ACWY vaccination certificate, and flight and hotel bookings. Allow 3–7 working days, and longer in Ramadan.
Source