The spiritual journey of Umrah holds deep significance for Muslims around the world. For residents of the United Arab Emirates, including both citizens and expatriates, visiting Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah is now more accessible than ever. This guide outlines everything you need to know about obtaining a Saudi Arabia Umrah visa for UAE residents, including eligibility, requirements, and the application process.
What is the Umrah Visa?
The Umrah visa is a religious visa issued by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Muslims intending to perform Umrah in Makkah (Mecca). Unlike the Hajj visa, which is restricted to specific dates and subject to quotas, the Umrah visa can be obtained throughout the year, except during the peak Hajj period.
Can UAE Residents Apply for an Umrah Visa?
Yes. Both UAE citizens and foreign nationals holding valid UAE residency permits are eligible to apply for an Umrah visa, provided they are Muslim and meet the entry and health requirements set by Saudi authorities.
Visa Options for Umrah Travelers from the UAE
1. Traditional Umrah Visa
This visa is issued specifically for the purpose of performing Umrah and must be applied for through a licensed travel agency authorized by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
2. Tourist Visa
UAE residents of certain nationalities may be eligible to apply for a Saudi tourist visa, which now permits Umrah (outside the Hajj season). This visa is typically available through the Saudi copyright portal and offers greater flexibility.
3. Transit Visa
Some travelers passing through Saudi Arabia for other destinations may be eligible for a transit visa, which allows short visits including Umrah. This option depends on flight arrangements and eligibility.
Requirements for Umrah Visa (UAE Residents)
General Requirements:
A valid copyright (minimum 6 months validity)
UAE residence visa (for expatriates)
copyright-size photograph (white background)
Completed Umrah copyright form (through a licensed agency or copyright platform)
Return travel ticket
Proof of hotel/accommodation in Makkah and Madinah
Valid health insurance
Vaccination certificate (COVID-19, meningitis, and seasonal flu)
Note: Travel insurance and health requirements are mandatory and often included in visa packages.
How to Apply for the Umrah Visa
Option 1: Through a Licensed Umrah Agent in the UAE
Most pilgrims choose this route for convenience. The agency handles the entire process, including visa issuance, travel booking, accommodation, and ground transport in Saudi Arabia.
Option 2: Online via Nusuk Platform
The Saudi government now allows individual pilgrims to plan and apply for Umrah travel through the official platform Nusuk.sa. This is ideal for tech-savvy travelers who prefer a DIY approach.
Visa Fees and Processing Time
Visa Fee: Approximately AED 300 to AED 600, depending on the travel agency and package selected. Additional costs may apply for hotel bookings and transportation.
Processing Time: Typically 3 to 7 working days. It may take longer during peak seasons such as Ramadan.
Important Guidelines for Umrah Travelers
Women under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a male guardian (mahram).
Women over 18 may travel without a mahram if part of a group or authorized tour.
Pilgrims are not allowed to perform Hajj using an Umrah visa.
Overstaying the visa is a serious offense and can result in fines or bans from future entry.
When Can You Perform Umrah?
Umrah is available throughout the year, except for a temporary suspension during the Hajj period (usually 15 days before and after Hajj). The most popular times to perform Umrah include the months of Ramadan and during school holidays.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Saudi Arabia Umrah visa for UAE residents is a well-structured and straightforward process, especially with the support of licensed travel agencies and online tools like Nusuk. Whether you're a UAE citizen or an expatriate Muslim resident, planning ahead and following the guidelines ensures a smooth and spiritually rewarding journey to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah.
Please visit here If you need information related to SAUDI copyright APPLICATION FORM