Are you a Muslim with UK residency? Preparing for the sacred journey of Umrah involves more than booking a flight and hotel. You also need to make sure that you have the correct Saudi visa, a valid passport, suitable accommodation arrangements, and required authorisations before travelling. If you are comparing cheap Umrah packages, we urge you to understand the whole visa processing because it helps avoid unexpected costs and delays along the way. This post walks you through the latest requirements, fees, documents required, and a step-by-step guide to applying for an Umrah visa. So, keep reading till the end to get more valuable insights!
What Kind of Visa UK Pilgrims Need for Umrah?
UK pilgrims can choose from three types of visas to go on the pilgrimage, including a dedicated Umrah visa, a Saudi tourist e-visa, as well as the Saudi Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
Differences Between an Umrah Visa and a Tourist Visa
The following is a table depicting the main differences between an Umrah visa and a tourist visa.
| Feature | Umrah Visa | Saudi Tourist Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Main Purpose | Religious Pilgrimage to Makkah and Madinah | Leisure, Travel, and General Tourism (Also Allows Umrah) |
| Who Can Apply | Only Muslims | Open to All Eligible Nationalities and Faiths |
| How to Apply | Through Licensed Travel Agents or Approved Platforms | Online Through the Official e-Visa Portal or on Arrival |
| Validity & Entries | Usually Valid for Up to 90 Days; Often Single-Entry | Valid for One Year; Allows Multiple Entries |
| Travel Freedom | Restricted Mostly to Religious Sites and Approved Routes | Full Freedom to Travel Across Saudi Arabia |
| Package Rules | Often Requires a Bundled Package (Hotel and Transport) | Independent Planning With No Mandatory Package |
How Much Does an Umrah Visa Cost?
The base Saudi government fee for a standalone Umrah visa is $80 USD (approximately 300 SAR). Since the visa demands mandatory medical insurance, system platform fees, and typically must be linked with pre-booked accommodations or travel agencies, the total cost ranges between $150 and $330 USD based on the nationality and application method you choose. If you are looking for ways to make the most of your pilgrimage journey without draining your wallet, cheap Umrah packages are your go-to choice here. The good thing is that these deals let you avail flights, hotel stays, and other essential services, most importantly, visa processing in a single package without any hidden or extra fees. You will enjoy a budget-friendly journey.
Latest Umrah Visa Requirements for UK Pilgrims
Below are some of the latest Umrah visa requirements that UK pilgrims like you need to know.
Passport Validity
UK pilgrims must have a valid passport to be eligible for an Umrah visa. Your passport must have a validity period of at least 6 months from your planned date of arrival (entry) or travel.
Personal Details and Application Information
In order to apply for an Umrah visa from the UK, you must provide specific personal details, your travel plans, and health certifications via the Nusuk platform or an accredited travel agent.
Passport Photograph
The passport photograph for an Umrah visa requires a recent, clear, and front-facing colour image with a plain background. It is one of the other key requirements for UK pilgrims to know.
Accommodation and Travel Arrangements
UK pilgrims must provide electronically approved accommodation as well as necessary travel arrangement bookings through the official Nusuk Masar platform at the time of application.
Health and Insurance Requirements
UK pilgrims who are planning Umrah must provide a valid certificate for the Meningitis ACWY vaccine. They are automatically covered by mandatory health insurance included with their visa.
Documents to Prepare Before Applying for the Visa
Here are some important documents that UK pilgrims must prepare before applying for the visa.
Valid Passport
Your passport must not be older than 10 years and must also have empty pages for visa stamps.
Visa Application Form
A visa application form that is fully completed and signed, and matches your travel details too.
Passport-Sized Photos
Recent biometric passport-sized photographs, each having a clear, white-coloured background.
Travel Itinerary
Your travel itinerary, such as flight bookings and accommodation reservations (hotel bookings).
Proof of Financial Support
Bank statements that cover the last 3 to 6 months and show you have sufficient funds to spend.
Employment/Business Proof
An employment letter stating your job and monthly salary or business registration information.
Travel Insurance
A policy covering medical emergencies, meeting the minimum requirements of the destination.
Applying for an Umrah Visa - A Step-by-Step Guide
The following is a step-by-step guide for UK pilgrims, so they can easily apply for an Umrah visa.
- The first step is to install the official Nusuk app, or you can also visit the web portal.
- Once the app is downloaded, create an account by using your email and passport details.
- The next is to, submit your important personal information and your chosen travel dates.
- Select and reserve the verified hotel stays and transport through the Nusuk platform.
- Now, attach your digital photograph, passport scan, and the required health certificates.
- Complete the payment for the visa and the travel insurance fees, as discussed above.
- Get your approved e-visa through email or inside the app within 24 to 72 hours.
Cheap Umrah Packages and What They May Include
The demand for cheap Umrah packages among UK pilgrims is always on the rise. What makes these deals stand out is the offering of the following services, ensuring cost-effectiveness.
Visa Processing
Experts at the agency handle the complex visa application process, from arranging documents to submitting them to Saudi authorities on your behalf. This ensures you get quick visa approval.
Seamless Flight Arrangements
By partnering with leading airlines like Saudia departing from major departure airports in the UK, including Manchester, your travel agency will provide you with seamless round-trip flights.
Economical Accommodations
You get to stay in economical 3-star hotels, each personally visited by expert agents to ensure utmost comfort. You will enjoy convenient stays with no compromise on service quality at all.
Ground Transportation
Cheap Umrah deals also include ground transportation. They cover shared yet fully air-conditioned buses for airport transfers and convenient travel between Makkah and Madinah.
Meals and Drinks
As for meals and drinks, these packages include complimentary breakfast options at the hotel where you stay. Keep in mind that regular meal plans are not covered in the cheap Umrah deal.
Final Checklist Before You Travel
Before leaving the UK, pilgrims are advised to check the latest Nusuk platform requirements, passport validity, and several other details discussed above in this guide for a seamless journey throughout. If you find it hard to undergo such a thorough visa application process on your own, this is your sign to book cheap Umrah packages from a licensed agency like Muslims Holy Travel. These deals offer visa assistance and more, letting you undertake Umrah on a budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can UK Citizens Perform Umrah Using a Saudi Tourist Visa?
Yes, UK citizens can undertake Umrah using a Saudi tourist visa or ETA outside the Hajj season.
2. How Long Should My UK Passport Be Valid for?
Your UK passport must be valid for at least 3 to 6 months from your date of departure, depending completely on the entry requirements of your destination country (Saudi Arabia).
3. Can I Apply for an Umrah Visa Through a Travel Provider?
Yes, you can apply via a service provider, which is often a standard route for many nationalities.