As you prepare to embark on your sacred journey of Umrah, understanding the different types of Umrah visas is crucial to ensure a seamless and organized pilgrimage
Embarking on the holy journey of Umrah is a cherished dream for millions of people around the world. As you prepare for this spiritual expedition, it is crucial to understand the various types of Umrah visas available to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. In this blog, we will delve into five different types of Umrah visas, each catering to specific requirements, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your needs.
Transit Visa:
If you have booked a ticket with either Saudi Arabian airlines, Saudia or flynas, you are eligible for a complimentary transit visa. This visa allows you to stay in Saudi Arabia for a maximum of four days and perform Umrah.
The transit visa remains valid for three months, which means you can apply for it up to 90 days prior to your travel date.
Saudia provides an added benefit of a free night's accommodation along with your ticket. During the booking process, you will be asked to specify your preferred stopover location among the six international airports in Saudi Arabia. Depending on your travel itinerary, you will be presented with available options for the duration of your stay, with a maximum limit of four days.
eVisa for Expatriates in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Countries:
If you are an expatriate residing in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) or any of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, you have the opportunity to apply for a Saudi eVisa, regardless of your profession. The eVisa allows for both multiple and single entry options.
With this visa, you are able to perform Umrah throughout the year, except during the Hajj season.
Furthermore, the first-degree relatives of GCC residents and domestic workers, who are traveling with their sponsors, are also eligible to obtain a eVisa. However, it is important to note that the expat's dependents must possess a valid residency visa from a GCC country, as per the guidelines provided by the Saudi Arabia Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
To apply for the visa, you are required to visit MOFA's online visa platform at visa.mofa.gov.sa.
The eVisa for GCC residents carries a cost of SR300 (Dh293.25), in addition to the health insurance fee. The total cost will vary depending on the chosen health insurance coverage. It is essential that your residency document remains valid for a minimum of three months, and your passport has a validity of at least six months.
'Instant eVisa' for UK, US, or Schengen Visa Holders:
If you possess a tourist visa for the UK, US, or Schengen area, or if you are a permanent resident of a European Union (EU) country, you are eligible to obtain an immediate eVisa for Saudi Arabia.
An exemption has been granted to individuals with valid tourism or business visas from the UK, US, or Schengen area, as long as the visa has been utilized at least once to enter the issuing country.
This eVisa also allows you the opportunity to perform Umrah year-round in Saudi Arabia, with the exception of the Hajj season.
Visa on Arrival in Saudi Arabia:
According to the Ministry of Tourism in Saudi Arabia, individuals holding visas from the US, UK, and Schengen area, along with their immediate family members, can also avail visa on arrival.
For those who do not possess a visit visa or residency permit from the European Union, Schengen area, US, or UK, Saudi Arabia offers visa on arrival to citizens of over 40 eligible countries. You can check the eligibility of your country by clicking here.
Upon arrival at the airport or entry point in Saudi Arabia, as stated by Visit Saudi, you have the option to use the self-service kiosk or directly approach the passport control office to apply for your visa on arrival.
If you are eligible for a visa on arrival, you will have the opportunity to perform Umrah throughout the year, with the exception of the Hajj season.
Saudi Investor eVisa:
Foreign investors visiting Saudi Arabia have the opportunity to obtain a 'visiting investor' eVisa, allowing them to stay in the country for a maximum of 90 days without the need for a sponsor. The investor eVisa application can be submitted through MOFA's official visa platform at visa.mofa.gov.sa.
Qualified foreign investors have the option to apply for either a single or multiple entry eVisa and are also permitted to perform Umrah.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) of Saudi Arabia, the initial phase of the 'visiting investor' eVisa is currently available to investors from specific countries. During the online application process, when selecting your nationality, you will be notified if you are eligible to apply for this sponsor-free business visa.
The cost of the eVisa varies based on the duration, validity, and the type of medical insurance coverage chosen.
As you prepare to embark on your sacred journey of Umrah, understanding the different types of Umrah visas is crucial to ensure a seamless and organized pilgrimage. Whether you are transiting through Saudi Arabia, residing in a GCC country, holding a valid visa for the UK, the US, or a Schengen country, or considering investment opportunities, there is a visa option tailored to your specific requirements.
Have a look at our Umrah package
To inquire or make bookings, get in touch with us at 600544405 or email us at holidays@musafir.com