A Comprehensive Guide to Umrah Visa for UAE Residents

Are you a UAE resident planning to embark on the spiritual journey of Umrah? Understanding the intricacies of obtaining an Umrah visa for UAE residents is important to enjoy the spirituality of the place with a hassle-free experience. 

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss all the questions that may be in your mind about applying for the Umrah visa from Dubai and walk you through the step-by-step process to getting an Umrah visa for UAE residents, ensuring you plan your Umrah with all the information you need.

What is a Saudi Umrah visa?

Umrah is not obligatory in Islam but holds great significance for all Muslims who want to strengthen their bond with Allah with a deeply spiritual journey.

Umrah is a sacred pilgrimage to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia, undertaken by Muslims. Umrah is a spiritual opportunity to seek forgiveness, draw closer to Allah, and renew your faith. 

An Umrah visa permits you to visit Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah only with a validity of 90 days.

When can you go to Umrah?

As a Muslim, you can go to Umrah any time of the year, unlike Hajj, which has specific dates during the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah. Umrah can be performed at your convenience, making it a more flexible pilgrimage option. However, it’s essential to consider factors such as peak times, your schedule, personal readiness, and any travel restrictions or guidelines in Saudi Arabia. 

What are the entry and exit points allowed for you with Umrah visa?

As a UAE resident, you can enter and exit Saudi Arabia through specified entry points designated for Umrah pilgrims. These entry points are typically located in the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, as well as major airports in Saudi Arabia.

Who needs an Umrah visa from UAE?

UAE citizens do not need a visa to travel to Saudi Arabia for Umrah. As citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, including the UAE, they can travel to Saudi Arabia for Umrah without a visa. Just make sure you fulfill Umrah visa requirements for UAE residents to enter Saudi Arabia for Umrah and register on the Nusuk app to schedule an appointment in advance.

Those who need a Saudi Arabia Umrah visa are UAE expats with a valid UAE residence visa. UAE expats need to obtain an Umrah visa to travel to Saudi Arabia for this pilgrimage. For UAE expats, the Umrah visa is separate from the Hajj visa and is typically easier to obtain with UAE residence. However, not all UAE Expats can get an Umrah visa, as UAE residents with Syrian nationality are not eligible to get an Umrah visa from UAE. 

It’s always a good idea to check with the relevant travel agencies for any updated requirements or regulations before planning your trip to Umrah as a UAE resident. Travnook consultants are experts in providing tourism services for your spiritual trip to Umrah, including visa assistance for UAE residents and customized Umrah programs to have a comfortable experience.

What are 3 different ways to get a visa to Umrah:

To participate in the holy pilgrimage of Umrah in Saudi Arabia, you need first to obtain a visa before traveling to the country. Saudi Arabia makes the Umrah experience easier for travelers, by providing 3 options for getting an electronic visa which allows you to visit the country for Umrah. 

1. Electronic Umrah Visa

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Saudi Arabia has provided e-service for Umrah visas. Through the official website, you can request an Umrah visa and they will review the application.

2. Multiple-Entry E-Visa

Saudi Arabia facilitates the visa process for UAE residents. As the country grants easily a 1-year multiple-entry e-visa to most foreign nationalities with UAE residence. With your Saudi e-visa, you can have Umrah within 90 days per visit during this year and also participate in tourism-related activities. Check the official e-visa website to know what nationalities are eligible to get a Saudi e-visa.

3. Specific Types of Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa

If you have a multiple-entry tourist visa for the UK, US, or Schengen area, you can obtain an immediate e-visa for Saudi Arabia, making it the best option for frequent Schengen travelers to perform Umrah through the easiest way.

If you don’t meet the criteria for an eVisa, you can apply for an Umrah visa directly through the Saudi embassy in the UAE or use Umrah application platforms like Nusuk. 

To qualify for an Umrah visa as a UAE resident, you must meet certain eligibility criteria:

• You must be a resident of the UAE with a valid residency permit.
• Your passport should have a validity of at least six months.
• Women and children traveling without a mahram (a male relative) must be part of a group.

1.   A completed Umrah Visa Application Form:

The visa form should be filled out accurately with the applicant’s most recent contact details and personal information.

2.   Valid passport:

An original copy of a passport valid for at least six months must be provided.

3.   Valid residence visa:

A valid UAE residence visa for at least three months must be provided.

4.   Personal photos:

Two recent passport-sized photos with a white background, complying with passport photo specifications, must be provided.

5.   Proof of Relationship:

Women and children accompanied by a mahram husband, father, or other male relative should submit proof of relationship which could be a marriage certificate, birth certificate, or other valid document.

6.   Return Ticket:

Applicants should include a roundtrip airline ticket to Saudi Arabia that departs within 90 days of arriving in the country.

7.   A certificate from a mosque or Islamic center (if applicable)

Those with non-muslim names, converted to Islam should get a certificate from a mosque or Islamic center.

8.   Hotel booking confirmation:

Evidence of a confirmed booking at a hotel in Saudi Arabia must be provided.

It is important to note that children under 18 years of age require one of the parents to apply for the electronic Umrah visa on their behalf. It is necessary to check the official website of the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments in the UAE for the latest information and policy updates regarding Umrah visas for residents in the UAE.

The application process for the Umrah visa and the Saudi e-visa are different and will depend on the applicant’s nationality. You can find the basic steps to apply for both types of visa as below:

1. Submit the e-visa application form
   Submitting the e-visa form is simple and easy to do. Applicants can complete the application form online by submitting their passport details and other required information.
2. Pay the visa fees
   Applicants can pay the visa fee online using a valid credit or debit card.
3. Receive the approved visa
   The applicant will receive their approved Saudi e-visa via email. All applicants should review the visa information to ensure it’s correct before traveling.

1. Find an authorized agent
   Foreign nationals who are not eligible for the Saudi e-visa can apply for their Umrah visa through a travel agent authorized by the Saudi Arabia Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
2. Gather the required documents
   Applicants must gather all the required documents, including a valid passport, a recent passport-sized photo, and proof of residence. Other requirements may apply depending on the applicant’s unique situation.
3. Complete the application form
   Application forms can be submitted to the travel agency and should be completed with the most accurate, up-to-date information. As for the Umrah visa cost, Umrah visas are free of charge.
4. Wait for processing
   Umrah visas are typically processed within five (5) business days. Applicants should factor this into their travel plans.
5. Collect the approved visa
   Once the visa is approved, the applicant can collect their passport with the new visa from the travel agency. They can proceed with their travel plans to Saudi Arabia.

Umrah visas are typically valid for a specific period, allowing you to perform the pilgrimage within that timeframe. The duration of the visa may vary depending on the policies of the Saudi authorities and the travel agency processing your visa. As per the 2024 latest updates according to the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, this visa remains valid for three months (90 days) from the month of its issuance.

The price may vary based on several factors such as the agency you deal with, additional services provided, such as destination-based health insurance, the cost of different level hotels, and different flight tickets, whether economy or premium and internal transportation in the kingdom.

• Ensure all information provided in the application form is accurate and matches the details in your passport.
• Keep all required documents ready before submitting your application to expedite the process.
• Plan your travel well in advance, taking into account the processing time for the Umrah visa.
• Once you’ve obtained your Umrah visa, it’s time to make travel arrangements for your journey. Book your flights, accommodation, and transportation well in advance to ensure a seamless experience during your pilgrimage.
• Before traveling to Umrah, familiarize yourself with any health and safety guidelines issued by the Saudi authorities or your travel agency.
• Consult with the travel agency for any additional requirements or updates to the visa application process.

Embarking on the spiritual journey of Umrah as a UAE resident is a deeply enriching experience. By understanding all the details about Umrah Visa For UAE Residents from the eligibility criteria to the requirements and tips to get it smoothly, you can now prepare yourself to apply for an Umrah visa. Consulting with a trusted travel agency specializing in Umrah services can guide you on the best time to plan your pilgrimage to avoid crowds and assist you with the necessary arrangements. Contact us for expert visa and travel assistance with your holy trip to Umrah.

Q: How long does it take to process an Umrah visa?
A: Visas for Umrah issued by an authorized travel agency are faster than doing it on your own. With the help of TravNook Travel and Tourism, you can expect the Umrah visa processed within five (5) business days. It is advised to apply ahead and start your visa process early in case of any unforeseen delays.

Q: Can I Apply Umrah Visa Online From UAE?
A: Yes, you can apply Umrah visa online from UAE through official websites and electronic services. But booking the regular Umrah visa through travel agencies like Travnook provides flexibility in several aspects such as ease of booking flights and hotels of your choice.

Q: What are the age restrictions for Umrah visas?
A: Umrah visas are generally issued to individuals of all ages. However, there may be specific requirements for minors traveling without their parents or guardians. It’s essential to check these requirements with the relevant authorities or your travel agency.

Q: Can I perform Umrah during the Hajj season with an Umrah visa?
A: Typically, Umrah visas are not valid during the Hajj season. If you plan to perform Umrah during this time, you may need to apply for a Hajj visa instead, which has different requirements and procedures.

Q: Can I extend my Umrah visa if I decide to stay longer in Saudi Arabia?
A: Umrah visas are typically issued for a specific duration and cannot be extended. If you plan to stay longer in Saudi Arabia, you might need to apply for a separate visa or exit and re-enter the country with a different visa type.

Q: Can I apply for an Umrah visa if I have performed Umrah recently?
A: Saudi authorities often have restrictions on issuing multiple Umrah visas within a certain time frame. Make sure to check the latest regulations to ensure eligibility.

Q: Can I perform Umrah independently or do I need to join a group?
A: Both options are available. Some prefer to join organized group tours, while others choose to perform Umrah independently. However, regulations may differ for each option, so it’s essential to clarify before planning your trip.

Q: How much is the Umrah visa from UAE?
A: The cost depends on your hotel, airplane, and program preferences. Contact TravNook, a trusted travel agency in Dubai to help you create an Umrah program with a suitable budget.