Umrah Visa Requirements for UK Citizens 2026 � Complete Guide

If you are a British citizen planning Umrah in 2026, the visa process has become significantly easier. Saudi Arabia now allows Umrah on both dedicated Umrah visas and standard tourist e-visas � giving UK travellers more flexibility than ever before. Here is everything you need to know.

Option 1: Dedicated Umrah Visa (Through a Travel Agent)

The traditional route � your Umrah package provider arranges the visa on your behalf. This is still the most common method for UK pilgrims booking complete packages.

• Cost: Approximately �100-�150 (usually included in your package price)
• Processing time: 2-5 working days
• Validity: 30 days from entry (single entry)
• Requirements: Valid passport (6+ months), passport photo, meningitis vaccination certificate
• Who arranges it: Your licensed Umrah travel agent submits the application to the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah

Option 2: Saudi Tourist e-Visa (DIY Online)

Since 2019, Saudi Arabia has offered tourist e-visas that explicitly permit Umrah performance outside of Hajj season. This has been a game-changer for independent travellers.

• Cost: SAR 535 (approximately �115) including medical insurance
• Processing time: Minutes � approved online almost instantly
• Validity: 1 year, multiple entries, up to 90 days per visit
• Where to apply: visitsaudi.com � the official Saudi tourism portal
• Requirements: Valid passport (6+ months), digital passport photo, payment by debit/credit card

Required Documents Checklist

• Valid British passport with at least 6 months validity from your planned entry date
• Recent passport-sized photograph (white background, digital for e-visa)
• Meningitis (ACWY) vaccination certificate � mandatory for Umrah visa; recommended for tourist visa
• Confirmed flight booking (may be requested at immigration)
• Hotel booking confirmation (may be requested at immigration)
• Travel insurance (included with tourist e-visa; separate for Umrah visa)

Special Rules for Women and Children

Women: Saudi Arabia no longer requires a mahram (male guardian) for women over 18 performing Umrah. Women can travel independently or in groups.

Children: Minors travelling with one parent may need a notarised letter of consent from the other parent. Check with your travel agent.

Using the Nusuk App

All pilgrims must now download the Nusuk app (formerly Eatmarna) to book Umrah time slots at the Grand Mosque. This is free and mandatory. Download from the App Store or Google Play before you travel. Book your preferred time slot after arriving in Saudi Arabia.

Important: Hajj Season Restrictions

Neither the Umrah visa nor the tourist visa allows Umrah during Hajj season (approximately 2 weeks before Hajj until the end of Dhul Hijjah). If you want to perform Hajj, you need a separate Hajj visa arranged through the official UK Hajj quota system.