Every year, millions of Muslims from all over the world travel to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah. Unlike Hajj, which is only performed once a year, Umrah can be done at any time. It is a spiritual journey that brings peace and closeness to Allah.
To perform Umrah, you need a visa if you are not a citizen of Saudi Arabia. This is called an Umrah visa. How much does an Umrah visa really cost? The cost of getting an Umrah visa depends on several things. These include your country, the time of travel, the package you choose, and the type of services included in your trip.
This article explains the cost of an Umrah visa in a clear and simple way. Whether you are planning your first Umrah or helping a loved one prepare, this guide will help you understand everything related to the visa cost.
What Is an Umrah Visa?
An Umrah visa is a special entry permit that allows Muslims to enter Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah. It is different from a Hajj visa. The Saudi government issues this visa only to Muslims. It is usually valid for a short period, allowing the person to stay in the country for up to 30 days.
You can apply for the visa through an approved travel agent, through an online portal, or as part of a travel package. The process is usually simple but needs correct documents and payment of fees.
What Does the Umrah Visa Include?
When people talk about the cost of an Umrah visa, they are usually talking about more than just the visa itself. Most people get the visa as part of a full package. A typical Umrah package includes:
The visa itself
Hotel accommodation
Transportation in Saudi Arabia
Guidance during rituals
Travel insurance
Flight tickets (optional in some packages)
This means the total cost will depend on how many services are included in your package.
Umrah Visa Only vs. Umrah Package
There are two common ways to go for Umrah:
Umrah Visa Only: You only get the visa and arrange your own travel and stay.
Umrah Package: You get everything in one package—visa, hotel, transport, and more.
Most people choose the package option because it is easier and safer. But it is also more expensive. If you choose only the visa, you must handle your own bookings, which can be time-consuming.
How Much Does the Umrah Visa Cost?
The cost of the Umrah visa itself is generally low. In many cases, the visa fee is around $100 to $150. But this is only for the visa. The total cost can be much higher depending on the services included in your journey.
Some people may pay $300, while others may pay over $2,000. The final price depends on:
Your country of residence
Travel season (Ramadan season is more expensive)
Hotel class (3-star, 4-star, or 5-star)
Distance from the Haram (mosque)
Length of stay
Airline tickets
Meals and other services
Let’s break down the costs to make things clearer.
Factors That Affect Umrah Visa Costs
1. Country of Residence
Your location plays a big role in the cost. People living in countries closer to Saudi Arabia may pay less. On the other hand, travelers from far-off countries like the United States, Canada, or the United Kingdom often pay more due to higher flight and package costs.
2. Time of the Year
Ramadan is the most popular time for Umrah. During this holy month, prices for hotels and flights increase. So, the overall cost of an Umrah visa package will be higher in Ramadan. Traveling in off-peak months is cheaper.
3. Type of Accommodation
Staying near Masjid al-Haram or Masjid an-Nabawi is convenient, but hotels in these areas are expensive. If you are willing to stay further away and take a shuttle or walk, you can save money. Choosing 3-star hotels instead of 5-star ones also makes a big difference.
4. Length of Stay
If you stay for a short time, your hotel and meal costs will be lower. Staying longer increases the total cost. Some packages offer a 7-day stay, while others offer 14 days or more. Choose based on your budget.
5. Flight Prices
Flight tickets are not always included in the Umrah package. If they are, the total cost will be higher. Airlines also raise prices during peak seasons, so booking early helps.
6. Travel Agent Services
Travel agents charge different service fees. Some agents include extra services like guided tours, daily meals, or ziyarah (visiting holy sites), which increase the cost.
7. Group or Individual Travel
Going as part of a group is often cheaper than going alone. Group packages have shared transportation and hotel rooms, making them more budget-friendly.
8. Visa Type and Insurance
In some cases, people apply for an eVisa instead of a traditional Umrah visa. This is allowed for people from countries eligible for Saudi Arabia’s tourist visa. Some packages include travel insurance, which is also a cost to consider.
Examples of Umrah Costs in Different Regions
Here is a basic idea of what you might pay in different regions:
South Asia (Pakistan, India, Bangladesh): $500 to $900
Middle East and North Africa: $400 to $800
United Kingdom: £1,000 to £1,800
United States and Canada: $2,000 to $3,500
Remember, these are estimates and can change based on season, services, and current exchange rates.
Can You Apply for an Umrah Visa Online?
Yes, in many countries, you can apply online for an Umrah visa or a tourist visa that allows you to perform Umrah. This makes the process easier. You must still provide important documents like:
Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
Recent passport-sized photo
Proof of travel arrangements
Vaccination records (especially for meningitis and COVID-19)
Travel insurance
After approval, you receive your visa via email. The whole process can take a few days to a week.
Travel Tips to Save Money on Umrah
If you are looking to save money on your Umrah journey, here are some tips:
Book early, especially for Ramadan
Choose group travel over solo trips
Travel in off-peak months
Pick affordable hotels a bit farther from the Haram
Use travel agents with good reviews and affordable prices
Check if your country is eligible for Saudi eVisa (can be cheaper)
Things to Watch Out for
While applying for an Umrah visa or booking a package, keep these things in mind:
Always go through an approved travel agent
Avoid extremely cheap packages—they might hide extra costs
Read reviews and check the agency’s background
Make sure all services (meals, transport, hotel) are clearly mentioned
Understand what is included in the cost and what is not
What Happens If You Overstay the Visa?
Umrah visas are short-term visas. Overstaying can lead to big fines or even a travel ban. Always stick to the rules and leave on time. If you want to stay longer, apply for a visa extension or choose a different visa type.
Conclusion
The cost of an Umrah visa is not just about the visa fee. It includes many other expenses like flights, hotels, transportation, and meals. While the actual visa may cost only $100 to $150, the full Umrah experience often costs much more—anywhere from $500 to over $3,000 depending on your location and the services you choose.
Related topics:
- Can an Immigrant Get a Passport?
- How Long Does an Immigrant Visa Interview Take?
- How Long Can You Stay on a Student Visa?
