Labbayka Allahumma Umrah! Muslims worldwide yearn to utter these words and follow the Prophet’s (PBUH) footsteps by performing Umrah. Here’s everything you need to know to obtain your Umrah visa.
Yes, Indonesian citizens require a visa to travel to Saudi Arabia. While iVisa cannot currently help you apply for the Umrah Visa, we can explain the application process, requirements, and what to expect.
Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about getting an Umrah Visa from Indonesia and planning your pilgrimage.
What is Umrah, and why is it important to Muslims?
The Umrah journey is an Islamic pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia, similar to Hajj. However, unlike the Hajj, which has specific dates and rituals that must be followed, Umrah can be performed at any time of the year. The process of Umrah involves visiting the Kaaba and performing tawaf and Sa’y between Mount Safa and Mount Marwah.
Umrah is significant in Islam due to its spiritual and religious value. It is considered a way for Muslims to purify their souls and seek forgiveness for their sins. It is also a way to demonstrate devotion to Allah and to follow the example of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who performed the Umrah four times during his lifetime.
Anyone planning to visit the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for Umrah must have a valid Umrah visa.
Umrah Visa: What is it, and why do you need it?
The Umrah visa is a travel document issued by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), allowing you to enter Saudi Arabia to perform the Umrah pilgrimage.
Please note: This visa cannot be used to perform Hajj. A separate Hajj Visa is required during this period. The visa also does not allow activities like studying.
Saudi Arabia Umrah visa for Indonesian citizens
Citizens of Indonesia planning to visit Saudi Arabia for Umrah are required to obtain an Umrah visa. The process for obtaining an Umrah visa from Indonesia varies depending on the criteria of the Saudi government that you can meet.
To apply for an Umrah visa, Indonesians must first determine which Umrah visa they are eligible for based on the criteria they meet. Keep reading to see which visa types you may be eligible to apply for.
Eligibility criteria for obtaining an Umrah visa
Unfortunately, Indonesians cannot apply for a Saudi Arabia Tourist e-Visa or Umrah e-Visa. Indonesians can be eligible for different Umrah visas based on various criteria they meet:
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If you are a GCC resident, you can apply for an Umrah visa online through the Saudi Arabian government or the Umrah Visa package option.
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Indonesian nationals who are permanent US, UK, or EU residents or hold US, UK, or Schengen visas are eligible for a visa on arrival or the Umrah visa through the package option, which the Saudi Embassy issues.
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If you do not meet the above exceptions, you will only be eligible to apply for the Umrah visa through the package option. This can be obtained by booking an Umrah package through one of the approved service providers or visiting one of your local travel agencies approved to book Umrah packages. Your visa will then be processed and issued through the nearest Saudi Arabia Embassy or consulate.
Can Indonesians perform Umrah with a Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa?
Unfortunately, iVisa cannot currently accommodate any of these visa applications. We currently only offer application services for the Saudi Arabia Tourist e-Visa however, Indonesians are not eligible for this option.
If you are not a citizen of Indonesia, you can check your eligibility for the Saudi Arabia Tourist eVisa with our Visa Checker Tool. If you are eligible for the Tourist e-Visa, you can apply through iVisa, as our simplified process ensures a simpler and more manageable experience!
Why should you? The Tourist e-Visa offers several advantages compared to an Umrah visa. For example, you can stay longer, and it is a multiple entry visa meaning you could visit the Kingdom to perform Umrah more than once. However, tourist visas are more difficult to obtain, and you have a higher chance of getting a pilgrimage visa when you apply with a licensed travel agency. You can only perform Umrah with a tourist visa and not Hajj.
Saudi Arabia Umrah Visa from Indonesia Application Process
Back to how Indonesians can apply for their Saudi Arabia Umrah Visa from Indonesia. You will need to complete the following steps:
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Step 1: Find an approved travel agency in your home country and work with them to apply for your visa. They will be in charge of preparing your application and planning your trip. The agency will offer several Umrah package options at different price ranges.
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Step 2: Prepare all required documents for the application and submit them to your chosen travel agency. The agency will proceed with the rest of the application.
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Step 3: Register on the Umrah apps. Once you enter the country, you need to download two obligatory apps on your phone: the Tawakkalna app (which works only in Saudi Arabia and will contain all your vaccination records, which you need to display when you enter hotels, restaurants, and the masjids) and the Etmarna app (which allows you to get prayer permits and have them linked to your Tawakalna).
Umrah Visa Requirements
Indonesian Umrah pilgrims will need the following documents to apply for their Umrah visa:
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Umrah visa application form.
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One recent passport photograph. If you require new photos, use the iVisa passport photo service to get updated passport photos from the comfort of your home.
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Valid passport with a six-month validity period (from when you submit your application). You may need a scan showing passport details as well.
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Purchased non-refundable flight tickets.
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Evidence of a relationship between female pilgrims and their ‘mahram’ (partner/brother/father).
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Health insurance covering Covid-19 infections as well.
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Proof of meningitis vaccination at least ten days before traveling but not older than three years.
These requirements seem overwhelming. However, remember that even an economy Umrah package already includes visa application, accommodation, transportation, and medical Insurance. Your Umrah package agent will assist you with the visa application process.
Alternatively, those applying for a visa on arrival or the Umrah eVisa may be required to provide additional documentation, including the relevant residency permits or visas.
Saudi Arabia Umrah Visa Fee
The Umrah visa application costs between $380 to $490. But, the visa fees are liable to change from country to country.
Additionally, pilgrims must pay for the Umrah travel package, raising the overall cost of Umrah to between $1,500 to $2,000.
Umrah Visa Validity
The Umrah visa is valid for two weeks. But, if you are performing Umrah during Ramadan, you must leave by the last day of the holy month regardless of whether you have stayed for two weeks.
Umrah Visa Processing Time
In normal circumstances, an Umrah visa takes five to ten days to finish processing— depending on your country of residence.
Important tips and guidelines for Umrah Visa applicants:
If you're planning to apply for an Umrah visa, there are several essential tips and guidelines you should keep in mind to ensure a smooth and hassle-free process.
These tips include understanding the eligibility requirements for the visa, preparing all necessary documentation in advance, and being aware of any travel restrictions or guidelines related to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Following these guidelines, you can increase your chances of obtaining an Umrah visa and enjoy a safe and fulfilling pilgrimage experience.
Religious rituals and practices
Umrah is a pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, that Muslims can undertake at any time of the year, unlike Hajj, which has specific dates. Umrah is a sacred journey for Muslims, involving several religious rituals and practices. The following are some significant rituals and practices Muslims perform during Umrah.
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Ihram: Ihram is a state of purity and devotion that Muslims must enter before starting Umrah. It involves wearing specific garments for men (two white, unstitched sheets) and specific modest clothing for women. Entering into the state of Ihram also involves performing a ritual bath (Ghusl) and reciting a particular intention (Niyyah).
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Tawaf: Tawaf is a ritual of circling the Kaaba, the holiest site for Muslims, seven times in an anticlockwise direction. It symbolizes the unity of Muslims and their devotion to Allah. Muslims also recite specific supplications and prayers while performing Tawaf.
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Sa'i: Sa'i is another significant ritual that involves walking back and forth between the hills of Safa and Marwa seven times. It commemorates the story of Hagar, the wife of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), who searched for water for her son Ishmael in the barren land of Mecca. This ritual is a reminder of the power of prayer and the mercy of Allah.
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Shaving or cutting hair: After completing Tawaf and Sa'i, Muslims must shave their heads or cut a small portion of their hair. It is a symbol of humility and submission to Allah.
The importance of Ihram in Umrah cannot be overstated. Ihram is a state of mind that requires Muslims to leave behind their worldly desires and distractions and focus solely on their relationship with Allah.
Cultural tips and recommendations
Those entering Saudi Arabia should keep in mind that the Kingdom is a culturally rich and diverse country, and it's essential for travelers to respect local customs and traditions during their visit. Here are some cultural tips and recommendations for visa holders entering Saudi Arabia:
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Dress Code: Saudi Arabia has a conservative dress code, and visitors should dress modestly in public places. Women should cover their heads and wear loose-fitting, full-length clothes that cover their arms and legs. Men should wear long pants and shirts with sleeves. Avoid wearing revealing or tight-fitting clothing.
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Food: Saudi Arabian cuisine is rich in spices and flavors, and visitors should try local delicacies such as shawarma, kabsa, and falafel. However, be aware that pork and alcohol are strictly prohibited in the country.
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Etiquette: Saudi Arabian culture strongly emphasizes hospitality and respect. Visitors should greet locals with "Assalamu alaikum" (peace be upon you) and respond with "Wa alaikum assalam" (and upon you be peace). It's also important to remove shoes before entering a mosque or someone's home and to avoid showing the soles of your feet.
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Gender segregation: In Saudi Arabia, there is strict gender segregation in public places. Men and women are usually separated in public transport, restaurants, and other public spaces.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our customer service team, who are available online, or email us at [email protected].
We hope you have a great time in Saudi Arabia!
