Umrah Visa for UK Citizens: Requirements and How to Apply

UK citizens need valid permission to enter Saudi Arabia before travelling for Umrah. At the time of writing there are three main routes: a dedicated Umrah visa arranged through a travel agent, a Saudi tourist eVisa, and an electronic visa waiver available to British citizens. Which one is right for you depends on your passport, how long you plan to stay and how you are booking your trip. Because the rules are updated from time to time, always confirm the current requirements before you pay for flights.

Do UK citizens need a visa for Umrah?

Yes. You cannot simply arrive in Saudi Arabia without permission to enter. The good news is that the process has become much simpler in recent years, and most applications are now made online.

If you book an Umrah package, the travel agent normally handles the visa for you as part of the booking. Our guide to what an Umrah package includes explains how this fits with your flights and hotels.

The main visa options for Umrah

Umrah visa

This visa is issued specifically for pilgrimage. It is arranged through a travel agent approved to provide Umrah services and is linked to your booking. It is the most common route for pilgrims travelling on a package.

Tourist eVisa

Saudi Arabia offers an electronic tourist visa to citizens of many countries, including the UK. Holders are permitted to perform Umrah outside the Hajj season. It can suit pilgrims who want the flexibility to visit other parts of the country on the same trip.

Electronic visa waiver

British citizens can apply online for an electronic visa waiver, which allows a single visit. It must be approved before you travel. Check the official guidance for the conditions that apply and how far in advance to apply.

What documents will you need?

Requirements vary by visa type, but you should expect to provide:

• A passport with enough validity. Six months from your date of arrival is the usual requirement.
• A recent passport style photograph
• Your personal and contact details
• Details of your flights and accommodation, which your travel agent supplies when you book a package
• Proof of any vaccinations required at the time of travel

If you hold a passport other than a British one, or you are a UK resident rather than a citizen, the options and documents may be different. Tell your travel agent which passport you hold at the start.

How to apply: step by step

1. Check your passport. Make sure it is valid for long enough and has blank pages. Renew it first if needed.
2. Choose your dates and package. The visa is tied to your travel plans.
3. Send your details to your travel agent. If you book with us, we tell you exactly what to provide.
4. Wait for approval. Processing times vary, so do not leave it until the last week.
5. Check the visa when it arrives. Make sure your name, passport number and dates are correct.
6. Carry a copy when you travel. Keep a printed copy and one on your phone.

Permits for Umrah and the Rawdah

A visa lets you enter the country. Separately, the Saudi authorities manage access to Umrah and to the Rawdah in Masjid an-Nabawi through an official app, where pilgrims book time slots. Your travel agent can explain how this works for your dates. It is wise to set up the app before you leave the UK.

Rules for women and children

The rules on women travelling without a mahram, and on children travelling for Umrah, have changed in recent years and may change again. We confirm the current position for your circumstances when you enquire. For more on travelling as a family, read our guide to Umrah with children and elderly parents.

Health requirements

The Saudi authorities publish health requirements for pilgrims, which can include specific vaccinations. These are reviewed regularly. Check the latest requirements a couple of months before you travel, so there is time to see your GP or a travel clinic if needed.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Booking flights before checking passport validity. A passport that expires too soon can stop your trip.
• Names that do not match. The name on your visa must match your passport exactly.
• Leaving it late. In busy periods such as Ramadan, allow extra time.
• Relying on old advice. What applied to a friend last year may not apply now.
• Using unofficial websites. Apply only through official channels or a travel agent you trust.

Where to check the latest rules

For the most up to date information, check the official Saudi visa portal and the UK government’s foreign travel advice for Saudi Arabia before you travel. Your travel agent should also be able to tell you what currently applies.

Visa processing with Fajar Travels

Visa processing is part of our Umrah packages. Once you choose your dates, we tell you which route applies to your passport, collect what is needed and handle the application alongside your flights, hotels and transfers.

Frequently asked questions

Can I perform Umrah on a tourist visa?

Tourist visa holders are permitted to perform Umrah outside the Hajj season. Confirm the current rules before you travel.

How long does an Umrah visa take?

Processing times vary with the type of visa and the time of year. Apply as early as you can.

How long must my passport be valid?

At least six months from your date of arrival is the usual requirement. Check this before booking.

Do children need their own visa?

Yes. Each traveller, including children, needs their own permission to enter.

Can I get a visa on arrival?

Do not rely on this. Arrange your visa or visa waiver before you travel.