How Indian citizens can get an Umrah visa for Saudi Arabia

If you're traveling from India to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah, obtaining the correct visa is essential for a smooth pilgrimage.

While we don’t currently offer the Umrah visa for Indian nationals, we are here to share everything we know to help you understand the visa application process.

Do Indian citizens need a visa to perform Umrah?

Yes, Indian nationals who wish to perform Umrah in Saudi Arabia must obtain a visa. The Umrah pilgrimage, which includes rituals such as Tawaf (circling the Kaaba) and Sa'i (walking between the hills of Safa and Marwa), holds deep spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide.

What is the Umrah Visa?

The Umrah visa allows Muslims to visit Mecca and Medina, Saudi Arabia’s sacred cities, specifically for pilgrimage. It differs from other visa types, such as work or tourism visas.

Indian citizens have a few different ways to enter Saudi Arabia for Umrah:

• Umrah visa: You can obtain this visa through a licensed local travel agent or service provider approved by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. These agencies offer Umrah packages tailored for pilgrimage.

• Saudi tourist eVisa: If you are a permanent resident of the USA, UK, EU, or have a valid visa from these regions or a Schengen Zone country (with at least one prior use), you can apply for a Saudi tourist eVisa online. This visa allows you to perform Umrah.

• Saudi transit eVisa: This visa is ideal for short stays, allowing up to 96 hours in Saudi Arabia. Pilgrims can use it for Umrah if they are passing through the country.

Umrah visa rules

The Saudi Arabian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah introduced new rules that affect Umrah visas. Here’s what’s changed:

• Validity: Umrah visas are now valid 90 days from the issue date. Previously, the validity started upon arrival in Saudi Arabia.

• Expiration for international pilgrims: All Umrah visas now expire on 15 Dhu al-Qa’dah. This adjustment allows the Saudi authorities more time to prepare for Hajj and enhances the experience for Umrah pilgrims.

• Penalties for overstaying: Pilgrims who overstay their visas may face fines, as will the companies that arranged their visas. International pilgrims must leave Saudi Arabia by the visa expiration date.

How to apply for a Saudi Umrah visa from India

1.Find a licensed travel agency: Find an approved travel agency or service provider in India that offers Umrah packages.

2.Prepare your documents: Gather the required documents outlined by the agency and complete the visa application form.

3.Submit your application: Hand in your completed application and documents to the travel agency, along with the necessary fees.

4.Wait for processing: The agency will notify you once your visa has been approved.

5.Collect your passport: Pick up your passport with the visa included, and double-check the details for accuracy before your trip.

"I found that working with a local agency helped me organize my trip smoothly. They were familiar with all the documentation required and even assisted with last-minute questions before my departure," said Muhammed from Mumbai.

Saudi Arabian embassy in India

If you need assistance regarding Saudi Arabian visas, you can contact the Saudi Arabian Embassy in New Delhi:

• Address: EP 30, Chandragupta Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, India
• Phone: +91 11 2410 2000

Additional travel considerations

Before traveling, ensure you’ve carefully checked all visa requirements, as staying beyond your visa duration could result in penalties. Pilgrims performing Umrah should also know the rules surrounding the Umrah season cut-off, ensuring timely departure from Saudi Arabia.

Many travelers recommend keeping copies of your documents and an organized itinerary to avoid any unexpected issues during your trip.

"My experience was stress-free because I double-checked everything beforehand," shared Aliyah from New Delhi.

Need more information?

Our customer service team is ready to assist you if you have any questions about traveling to Saudi Arabia or the Umrah visa application. Contact us anytime via WhatsApp or iVisa chat.