Fresh Updates on Umrah for UK Muslims

The spiritual journey of Umrah for UK Muslims is becoming more structured and digitally integrated, thanks to new policies introduced by the Saudi Arabian government, particularly for the 2025 season. These updates are primarily focused on improving pilgrim safety, streamlining visa processes, and ensuring a higher quality of service.

Here are the fresh updates and key tips for UK Muslims planning their Umrah journey:

1. Major Visa & Booking Policy Changes (Effective 2025)

The Saudi authorities have implemented significant changes that effectively mandate booking through official, pre-verified channels.

Mandatory Umrah Package Booking: As of mid-2025, travellers are no longer able to apply for a visa-only option. The Saudi Ministry now requires a complete Umrah package (including accommodation, transport, and flights) to accompany every visa application.

The Nusuk Platform is Key: The new digital platform, Nusuk, is central to the entire process.

Mandatory Accommodation Booking: Pilgrims must book their accommodation in advance exclusively through the official Nusuk Masar platform or a licensed agent. Unverified or 'walk-in' applications without a pre-booked, licensed hotel will be rejected.

Group Travel Structure: While individual travel is possible, the system encourages organized travel. Groups are generally required to stay in the same registered hotel and use the same designated transport.

eVisa and Visa Waiver: UK Muslims can still utilize the Saudi tourist eVisa or the Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW), which permit Umrah outside the Hajj season, provided they follow the mandatory accommodation and travel booking requirements. The eVisa is typically valid for 365 days, allowing multiple entries for up to 90 days total.

2. Health & Vaccination Requirements

Health and safety remain a high priority, with strict vaccination rules being enforced for all Umrah pilgrims.

Meningococcal ACWY Vaccine is Compulsory: All travellers aged one year and older must have proof of vaccination against the Quadrivalent (ACWY) Meningococcal Meningitis strains.

The vaccine must be received at least 10 days prior to arrival and no longer than five years before the planned trip (for the conjugate vaccine type).

It is vital to get the certificate from a GP, nurse, or pharmacist in the UK, as it is mandatory for visa application and entry.

COVID-19 Vaccination: While not mandatory for all, it is required for high-risk groups performing Umrah, including those over 65 years, pregnant women, and people with certain long-term chronic health conditions.

Flu Vaccine Advisory: The seasonal influenza vaccine is strongly recommended, especially given the crowded environment and the risk of respiratory infections during the cooler winter months.

3. Key Planning Advice for UK Muslims

These updates demonstrate Saudi Arabia's commitment to modernizing the pilgrimage experience under Vision 2030, making it essential for UK Muslims to plan their 2025 Umrah trip using licensed operators and the official digital platforms.