Everything UK Muslims need to know about the Saudi Umrah e-Visa — who needs it, what documents are required, how long it takes, and how Alharmain handles it for you.
Getting your Saudi Umrah visa is one of the most important parts of preparing for your pilgrimage. The good news: as part of any Alharmain Travels package, we handle your visa application entirely — you don't need to deal with the Saudi embassy or navigate any online portals. But it's useful to understand how the system works.
Do UK Citizens Need a Visa for Umrah?
Yes. All pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia for Umrah require a specific Umrah visa. This is separate from the Saudi tourist visa and is issued through licensed travel agents like Alharmain Travels. You cannot apply for an Umrah visa independently — it must go through an authorised travel provider.
Umrah Visa Requirements for UK Passport Holders
- Valid UK passport (minimum 6 months validity beyond your return date)
- At least 2 blank pages in your passport
- Completed Umrah visa application form (we submit on your behalf)
- Recent passport-sized photographs (white background)
- Proof of meningitis ACWY vaccination (certificate required — must be obtained before application)
- Confirmed hotel bookings in Makkah and Madinah
- Confirmed return flight tickets
- For women under 45: proof of travel with mahram (husband, father, son, or brother)
- For women 45+: can travel in a group without mahram; group declaration required
Book your meningitis ACWY vaccination as early as possible — NHS appointments can have a 4–8 week wait. Some private travel clinics offer walk-in appointments. The vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before travel.
How Long Does the Umrah Visa Take?
Umrah visas are typically issued within 7–14 working days once all documents are submitted. During peak periods (Ramadan, school holidays), processing times can extend to 3–4 weeks. We recommend submitting your application at least 6 weeks before your departure date to allow for any delays.
How Much Does the Umrah Visa Cost?
The Umrah visa itself is currently free of charge for UK passport holders — Saudi Arabia removed the visa fee as part of its Vision 2030 tourism initiative. However, there are administrative and processing fees charged by travel agents for handling the application. Alharmain Travels includes visa processing within our all-inclusive package price — there are no hidden charges.
How Alharmain Handles Your Visa
- 1You book your Umrah package and pay your deposit.
- 2We send you a document checklist and instructions.
- 3You provide your passport, photos, and vaccination certificate.
- 4We submit the application through our authorised Saudi Ministry of Hajj account.
- 5Your digital visa is issued and attached to your passport number.
- 6We confirm visa approval and send you a copy before departure.
Common Visa Issues & How to Avoid Them
- Expired or insufficient passport validity — check your passport NOW and renew if needed
- Missing meningitis certificate — book your vaccine at least 8 weeks before travel
- Name discrepancy between passport and booking — always book flights/hotels in your exact passport name
- Mahram documentation for women — prepare a nikah certificate, birth certificate or family document
Book your Umrah package — we handle the visa
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