If you are a Moroccan citizen wanting to perform Umrah in Saudi Arabia, prepare by applying for a Saudi Arabia Visa first. Applying for an Umrah Visa can seem daunting, but with the proper guidance, it is pretty straightforward.
Our experts at iVisa have created a step-by-step guide to walk you through applying for a Saudi Arabia Visa to perform Umrah as a Moroccan citizen.
Find out the differences between the Tourist eVisa and Umrah Visa, options for Moroccan visitors, visa fees, and more below!
About Umrah and the Umrah Visa
The rituals of Umrah are a beautiful expression of devotion. The Tawaf or circling the Kaaba, represents the unity of Muslims worldwide, and the Sa'i or walking between the hills of Safa and Marwa, symbolizes the endurance of Hagar.
The Umrah Visa allows Muslims to visit Mecca and Medina, the two holy cities in Saudi Arabia, to perform the pilgrimage. This Saudi Arabian visa is explicitly issued for Umrah and is separate from other types of visas issued for Saudi Arabia, such as work or tourist visas.
Umrah visa options for Moroccan citizens
There are several different Umrah visa options available, depending on several factors.
Let’s break it down:
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If you are a GCC resident, you can apply for the official Umrah Visa through the Saudi Arabian government or a travel package with a licensed agency.
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Moroccans who are permanent residents or visa holders of the United States, United Kingdom, or EU/Schengen may be eligible for a visa on arrival in Saudi Arabia (conditions apply) or a travel package with a licensed agency.
If you do not meet the above exceptions, you have three other visa options:
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Visa through package through a licensed Umrah travel agency.
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Embassy Visa available via the Saudi Arabia government.
Although some nationalities can perform Umrah using the new Saudi Arabia Tourist eVisa, Moroccans, unfortunately, are not yet eligible for this electronic visa. However, if you are living in Morocco but hold citizenship of an eligible country, you may be able to apply for this multiple-entry visa.
Check your Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa eligibility with our Visa Checker Tool. You can also read more about the Saudi Arabia Tourist eVisa here.
Obtain an Umrah Visa from Morocco: Travel package
To apply for a Saudi Arabia Umrah Visa through package, follow these steps:
- Step 1: Find an approved travel agency in your home country and apply for your visa through them. They will help you prepare your application and plan your trip. The agency will offer several Umrah package options at different price ranges.
These packages usually include accommodation and transport, depending on your chosen package.
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Step 2: Prepare all required documents for the application and submit them to your chosen travel agency. The agency will help you submit your application and update you on the status.
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Step 3: Register on the Umrah apps. Upon entering Saudi Arabia, you need to download two obligatory apps on your phone:
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The Tawakkalna app, which works only in Saudi Arabia and will contain all your vaccination records. You need this to enter hotels, restaurants, and masjids.
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The Nusuk app allows you to get prayer permits and have them linked to your Tawakalna.
Get an Umrah Visa through the embassy in Morocco
To apply for a Saudi Arabia Umrah Visa through your nearest Saudi Arabia embassy, you will need to:
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Step 1: Contact the Saudi Arabia Embassy in Morocco and prepare all required documents for the application.
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Step 2: Visit the embassy for an in-person application or interview, submit all required documentation, and pay the application fees.
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Step 3: Track the progress of your application and register on the Tawakalna and Nusuk apps before you enter Saudi Arabia.
Umrah Visa document checklist for Morocco citizens
As a Moroccan citizen, you will need the following documents to apply for an Umrah Visa:
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Valid Moroccan passport with at least six months remaining validity and two blank pages for the visa stamp.
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A completed Umrah visa application form.
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Two recent passport-sized color photographs with a white background. If you require new photos, use the iVisa passport photo service and get government-compliant passport photos from the comfort of your home.
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Confirmed round-trip airline ticket.
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Vaccination certificate showing proof of vaccination against meningitis and other diseases recommended by the Saudi Ministry of Health.
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Letter from your employer or school verifying your employment or enrollment status.
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Notarized letter of consent if you are a female under 45 years old traveling without a male companion.
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Copy of your marriage certificate if you are traveling with your spouse.
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Copy of a birth certificate for children traveling with their parents or other family members.
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Copy of your hotel reservation confirmation or travel itinerary in Saudi Arabia.
It is important to note that the visa requirements may vary depending on the Saudi Arabia embassy or consulate where you apply.
Check with the nearest Saudi embassy or consulate in Morocco for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
Umrah Visa fees for Moroccan citizens: How much does it cost?
The costs for the Umrah Visa for Moroccan citizens varies depending on the type of visa and the services requested. Generally, the fees for an Umrah visa range between US$100 - 400.
However, if you choose to use a travel agent to handle your visa application, there may be additional fees for their services. Additionally, there are expedited processing options available for an additional fee.
Umrah Visa validity for Moroccan citizens
The validity of an Umrah visa for Moroccan citizens varies depending on the type of visa issued.
An Umrah Visa is usually valid for 30 days from the date of entry into Saudi Arabia. However, some visas may have shorter validity periods, such as 14 days, depending on the time of year and the volume of applicants. It’s a single-entry document.
It is advisable to check with the Saudi embassy or consulate in Morocco for the most up-to-date and accurate information on Umrah visa validity periods.
Umrah Visa renewal for Moroccan citizens
Umrah visas for Moroccan citizens cannot be renewed or extended. If you wish to perform Umrah again, you must apply for a new Umrah Visa from Morocco.
Overstaying your visa in Saudi Arabia can result in fines, deportation, and a ban from entering the country in the future
It is advisable to adhere to the visa regulations and to seek assistance from the Saudi embassy or consulate in Morocco if you have any questions or concerns regarding your visa validity.
Is it possible to cancel my Umrah Visa application?
If you have changed your mind or need to change your Umrah plans, it is possible to cancel an Umrah Visa application. Contact your travel agency or the Saudi embassy or consulate in Morocco or visit the Saudi Government website as soon as possible to inform them of your cancellation.
They will guide you through the cancellation process and advise you on any associated fees or procedures.
It is important to note that cancellation fees may apply and that the refund process may take some time to complete.
Tips for a hassle-free Umrah Visa application process for Moroccan citizens
Moroccan citizens should keep these tips in mind for a smooth Umrah Visa application process:
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Start the application process early - It's important to begin the application process as early as possible to avoid any last-minute rush. You can start the process by visiting the official website of the Saudi Arabian embassy in Morocco or contacting a travel agency specializing in Umrah visas.
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Choose a reliable travel agency: If you're applying through a travel agency, make sure you choose a reliable one that is registered with the Saudi Arabian embassy. You can check the list of registered travel agencies on the embassy's website.
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Follow the rules and regulations: It's important to follow all the rules and regulations the Saudi Arabian embassy sets for Umrah visas. Ensure you understand the requirements and comply with them to avoid delays or rejections.
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Be patient and persistent: The application process may take some time, so it's important to be patient and persistent. Follow up with the embassy or travel agency if you have been waiting to hear back from them.
Common mistakes to avoid when applying for an Umrah Visa as a Moroccan
Common mistakes that Moroccan citizens should avoid when applying for an Umrah visa:
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Incomplete or inaccurate application - Make sure to fill out the application form completely and accurately, including all required fields. Make sure to check for misspelling your name and birth date, for example.
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Applying for the wrong type of visa - As mentioned, different types of visas allow you to perform Umrah. Make sure you apply for the correct type of visa based on your travel plans and requirements.
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Not adhering to the dress code - Saudi Arabia has a strict dress code, especially for women. Always dress modestly and cover your hair when visiting religious sites like the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca. Even with an Umrah visa, you may be denied entry if dressed inappropriately.
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Not obtaining the required vaccinations - Ensure to get vaccinated against COVID-19 and other diseases required by the Saudi Arabian government before applying for the visa. Failure to do so can result in the rejection of your application.
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Not booking accommodations in advance - It's important to book your accommodations in advance to ensure a hassle-free trip. Make sure to have confirmation of your reservations when applying for the visa.
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Applying too late - Applying for an Umrah visa too late can result in delays or even rejection of your application. Start the application process as early as possible to avoid any last-minute rush and disappointments.
Who can I contact if I have more questions?
If you have any questions or concerns about the Umrah Visa, Saudi Arabia Tourist eVisa, or another travel document, please contact our customer service team, available via online chat or email at [email protected].
We hope you have a fulfilling journey and a great time in Saudi Arabia!
