New Umrah Visa Rules 2025: Complete Guide for UK Pilgrims
15 Jul, 2025
Umrah holds immense spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide. Unlike Hajj, Umrah can be performed at any time of the year and involves sacred rituals such as Tawaf and Sa’i, carried out in the holy city of Makkah. With millions of Muslims traveling for Umrah each year, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) continuously updates and improves its visa policies to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims.
As 2025 progresses, several new Umrah visa rules and updates have been announced, directly affecting travelers, particularly those applying for an Umrah visa from the UK. This article explores the latest regulations, the Umrah visa process UK, eligibility changes, and the government’s initiatives to improve the pilgrim experience.
Understanding the Umrah Visa from UK
An Umrah visa is a travel authorization granted by the Saudi government that permits Muslims to enter the Kingdom for the purpose of performing Umrah rituals. For UK residents, this visa can be obtained in different formats—either as a dedicated Umrah visa, a tourist visa, or even a transit visa.
While citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries do not require a visa to enter Saudi Arabia, others, including UK residents, must apply in advance.
Key Updates in Umrah Visa Rules for 2025
Here are the most important changes and regulations implemented for Umrah travel in 2025:
1. Extended Visa Duration
One of the most notable changes is the extension of Umrah visa validity from 30 to 90 days. Pilgrims now have up to three months to stay in Saudi Arabia and perform their religious duties, along with optional visits to historical sites and other cities like Madinah or Jeddah.
This extended duration adds flexibility for pilgrims planning longer stays or combining Umrah with family visits or tourism.
2. Multiple Visa Types Accepted
In 2025, the Saudi government allows multiple visa categories for performing Umrah, such as:
Tourist e-visas
Visa on arrival (for eligible countries)
Transit visas
Dedicated Umrah visas via approved agents
This flexibility has simplified the Umrah visa process UK, making it more accessible for a wide range of applicants.
Umrah Visa Requirements UK (2025 Edition)
If you're planning to travel from the UK for Umrah, here are the updated Umrah visa requirements UK pilgrims need to fulfill:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Valid Passport | Must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry |
| Passport-Sized Photos | Two recent photographs with white background |
| Confirmed Return Ticket | Required for visa processing |
| Proof of Accommodation | Hotel booking or accommodation letter for the duration of stay |
| Vaccination Certificate | Proof of COVID-19 and Meningitis vaccinations, as per Saudi guidelines |
| Travel Insurance | Health and travel insurance valid in Saudi Arabia |
| Authorized Travel Agent (if applicable) | For those applying via approved Umrah tour operators |
Applying for an Umrah Visa from the UK
For UK residents who intend to go for Umrah packages from UK, there are generally two main routes to apply for an Umrah visa:
a. Tourist e-Visa
The quickest method for eligible applicants
Can be obtained online through the Saudi eVisa portal
Allows both tourism and Umrah
Valid for one year with multiple entries
Duration of stay: up to 90 days per visit
b. Traditional Umrah Visa (via Authorized Agent)
Suitable for travelers not eligible for the e-visa
Offered through approved Umrah travel agencies in the UK
Valid only for Umrah, not tourism
Requires a group or individual booking
Both routes have their advantages, and the choice depends on your nationality, travel preferences, and eligibility.
Visa Fees for Umrah in 2025
The Saudi tourist e-visa currently costs $199, but this may vary depending on currency fluctuations and service provider fees.
The Umrah visa itself is free; however, those using traditional application channels through agents may incur service charges.
Additional costs include insurance, flight tickets, transportation, and accommodation.
Safety, Security, and Regulation Enforcement
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has significantly enhanced safety protocols to ensure a smooth pilgrimage experience:
Use of Technology: Smart crowd control systems, tracking, and app-based booking slots are implemented in the Grand Mosque to avoid overcrowding.
Health Facilities: Improved medical support for pilgrims during peak times.
Hotel Expansion: More affordable and accessible accommodation options are available, especially near Haram.
The enforcement of rules is also more stringent in 2025. Violating Umrah laws may result in harsh penalties:
Penalties Include:
Fines up to SR 50,000
Up to six months in jail for those transporting unauthorized pilgrims
Seizure of vehicles used to aid violations
Deportation for foreign violators with a ban on re-entry
Importance of Following the Rules
Strict enforcement aims to preserve the sanctity of the pilgrimage and ensure that all pilgrims have a peaceful and organized journey. The Saudi authorities prioritize:
Preventing overcrowding at religious sites
Ensuring safe accommodations and transport
Educating pilgrims about religious etiquette and state laws
Pilgrims are encouraged to book through trusted agencies, comply with visa rules, and respect local guidelines throughout their stay.
The new Umrah visa rules for 2025 aim to improve accessibility, security, and overall pilgrim satisfaction. From extended visa durations to streamlined application methods, these reforms highlight Saudi Arabia’s dedication to enhancing the spiritual journey for millions of Muslims, including those applying for the Umrah visa from the UK.
Whether you're planning your first Umrah or a repeat visit, understanding the updated Umrah visa requirements UK and the Umrah visa process UK will ensure a smoother, stress-free experience. With a renewed focus on safety, technology, and pilgrim welfare, the 2025 Umrah season promises to be more organized and spiritually fulfilling than ever before.