Planning an Umrah trip from the UAE has become more flexible, with Saudi Arabia now offering four different visa options for pilgrims. Instead of relying on a single permit, travellers can now choose a visa based on how often they plan to visit the Kingdom and whether they also intend to explore other parts of Saudi Arabia during their trip.
The introduction of Saudi Arabia’s new multiple-entry Umrah visa has given frequent pilgrims another option. According to Dubai based travel experts, the most suitable visa depends on an individual’s travel plans, budget and whether the visit is solely for Umrah or includes tourism.
Four Visa Options Now Available for UAE Residents
Previously, most pilgrims travelled on a dedicated Umrah visa arranged through authorised travel agencies. Later, Saudi Arabia allowed visitors to perform Umrah using its tourist visa, making it possible to combine a religious journey with sightseeing.
The latest addition is a 12-month multiple entry Umrah visa, designed for those who perform Umrah more than once a year. With this new option, UAE residents can now choose from four different visa categories depending on their travel requirements.
Which Visa Is Right for You?
Multiple Entry Umrah Visa
This newly introduced visa is intended for residents planning multiple Umrah trips within a year. It remains valid for 12 months and allows multiple entries into Saudi Arabia, with a combined stay of up to 90 days spread across different visits.
According to Dubai-based travel agencies, the visa generally costs around Dh600 to Dh650 and is usually processed within two working days.
However, the visa is intended only for Umrah and cannot be used for general tourism within Saudi Arabia.
Multiple Entry Tourist Visa
For travellers who want the flexibility to perform Umrah while also visiting destinations such as Riyadh, Jeddah or AlUla, the multiple entry tourist visa remains a popular option.
The visa is valid for one year, costs around Dh425, and processing may take anywhere between one week and one month, depending on the application.
Single Entry Tourist Visa
Those planning just one trip but wishing to include sightseeing or family visits alongside Umrah may find the single entry tourist visa the better option.
Travel agents say the visa generally costs Dh300 to Dh350 and is typically processed within two to five working days.
Single Entry Umrah Visa
For pilgrims making a one-time religious visit without any tourism plans, the traditional single entry Umrah visa continues to be the simplest choice.
Its cost usually ranges from Dh350 to Dh450, while processing normally takes two to three working days.
Nusuk Registration Is Still Mandatory
Regardless of which visa is selected, one requirement remains unchanged.
Pilgrims must register through Saudi Arabia’s Nusuk platform before entering Masjid al-Haram to perform Umrah. While the visa allows entry into the country, Nusuk manages pilgrimage appointments.
Those wishing to visit Rawdah (Riyaz-ul-Jannah) inside the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah must also secure an appointment through Nusuk, as entry is subject to slot availability.
Booking Flights and Hotels Independently
Travel experts also note that pilgrims are free to arrange their own flights and accommodation instead of purchasing a travel package through an agency.
However, applicants are still required to submit complete travel documents, including hotel bookings and return flight details, as part of their visa application.
For holders of the new multiple entry Umrah visa, these supporting documents must be submitted before every individual trip, even though the visa itself remains valid for an entire year.
Quick Guide to the Four Visa Options
- Single-entry Umrah visa: Best for one-time pilgrims travelling only for Umrah.
- Single-entry tourist visa: Suitable for travellers combining Umrah with sightseeing or family visits.
- Multiple-entry Umrah visa: Designed for residents planning several Umrah trips during the year.
- Multiple-entry tourist visa: Ideal for frequent travellers who want the flexibility to perform Umrah while also exploring other parts of Saudi Arabia.
What UAE Pilgrims Should Know
With four visa options now available, UAE residents have greater flexibility when planning their pilgrimage. Travel experts say the right choice depends on how often a pilgrim intends to visit Saudi Arabia and whether the trip is purely for Umrah or also includes tourism.
They also advise travellers to confirm the latest visa fees, eligibility requirements and processing times with licensed Saudi visa agents before making travel arrangements, as requirements may change from time to time.