Many travelers get confused between an Umrah visa and a tourist visa for Saudi Arabia. Both visas allow you to enter the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, but they serve different purposes. Knowing the difference saves time, money, and stress.
This guide explains the main differences between Umrah visas and tourist visas. You will learn about purpose, rules, costs, and which visa fits your travel needs.
What is an Umrah Visa?
An Umrah visa is a special visa given to Muslims who want to perform Umrah in Makkah and Madinah. It is only for religious purposes.
- It allows entry to the holy cities.
- It does not allow tourism in other parts of Saudi Arabia.
- It is usually issued through approved travel agents or operators.
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What is a Tourist Visa?
A tourist visa is for general travel to Saudi Arabia. It can be used for leisure, family visits, or exploring the country.
- It is available as an eVisa for many countries.
- Both Muslims and non-Muslims can apply.
- With a tourist visa, you can also perform Umrah.
Eligibility for Saudi Umrah and Tourist Visa
The rules are different for an Umrah visa and a tourist visa. Here are the rules for both visas:
Umrah Visa
- Only Muslims can apply.
- Usually given through approved travel agents.
- The passport must be valid for at least six months.
- Women under a certain age may need a Mahram (male guardian).
Tourist Visa
- Open to many nationalities.
- Muslims and non-Muslims can apply.
- Does not require proof of religion.
- Available online for eligible countries.
Validity and Stay Limits of Saudi Tourist and Umrah Visas
The stay time and entry rules are not the same for an Umrah visa and a tourist visa.
Umrah Visa
- Valid for a short period, often 30 days.
- Single entry only.
- Only for Umrah, not tourism.
- Not valid during the Hajj season.
Tourist Visa
- Valid for up to one year in many cases.
- Allows multiple entries.
- Stay up to 90 days at a time.
- It can be used for Umrah outside the Hajj season.
Application Process of Umrah Visa and Tourist Visa
The way you apply is different for an Umrah visa and a tourist visa.
Umrah Visa
- Must apply through an authorized agent or operator.
- Requires a passport, photos, and vaccination proof.
- Processing takes a few days.
- Travel and hotel booking are often included in the package.
Tourist Visa
- Apply online through the official Saudi eVisa portal.
- Requires a passport copy, photo, and fee payment.
- Approval is quick, often within minutes or hours.
- Flexible to book your own flights and hotels.
Restrictions and Limitations of Umrah Visa and Tourist Visa
Each visa comes with its own set of rules and limits.
Umrah Visa
- Only for religious purposes.
- Travel outside Makkah, Madinah, and Jeddah is not allowed.
- Cannot work or engage in tourism.
- No entry during the Hajj season with this visa.
Tourist Visa
- Can visit most cities in Saudi Arabia.
- Can attend events, visit family, or explore landmarks.
- Cannot work in Saudi Arabia.
- Can perform Umrah but cannot perform Hajj.
Conclusion
Both Umrah visas and tourist visas permit entry into Saudi Arabia, but each serves a distinct purpose. The Umrah visa is strictly intended for religious travel, while the tourist visa offers greater flexibility by allowing both tourism and Umrah activities.
Selecting the appropriate visa depends on your travel objectives. If your sole purpose is to perform Umrah, the Umrah visa is sufficient. However, if you wish to explore the country in addition to performing Umrah, the tourist visa is the more suitable option.