No, a Saudi tourist visa cannot be used for Umrah. Umrah requires a specific type of visa called the Umrah visa, which is separate from a tourist visa and has specific requirements and restrictions for pilgrims visiting Mecca and Medina.
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No, a Saudi tourist visa cannot be used for Umrah. Umrah, a religious pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina, requires a specific type of visa called the Umrah visa, which is separate from a tourist visa and has specific requirements and restrictions for pilgrims visiting the holy cities.
The Umrah visa is specifically designed for individuals who wish to perform the pilgrimage and is granted for a shorter duration compared to a tourist visa. It is typically valid for 30 days and allows the individual to enter Saudi Arabia through specific ports of entry designated for pilgrims.
To obtain an Umrah visa, pilgrims must fulfill certain criteria and submit the required documentation. This includes a valid passport with at least six months validity, a completed application form, two recent passport-sized photographs, a certificate of vaccination against meningitis, and proof of confirmed bookings for flights and accommodations.
Additionally, in order to travel for Umrah, individuals must be sponsored by a licensed travel agency authorized by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. The agency will handle the visa application process on behalf of the pilgrim and provide the necessary support and services during the journey.
It is important to note that using a tourist visa for Umrah is not permitted, and individuals may face penalties and legal consequences if they attempt to perform the pilgrimage on a different type of visa. The Saudi government strictly regulates entry into the holy cities during the Umrah season to ensure the safety and well-being of pilgrims.
In a well-known resource, the Saudi Arabian Embassy in the United Kingdom states, “Please note that if you are travelling for Umrah purposes, you will need to obtain an Umrah visa rather than a tourist visa. The Umrah visa is valid for a specific period and allows the pilgrim to enter Saudi Arabia through specific entry points.”
Interesting facts on the topic of Umrah and visas:
- The Umrah pilgrimage can be performed at any time of the year, unlike the Hajj pilgrimage which has specific dates.
- Umrah is often referred to as the “lesser pilgrimage” in comparison to the Hajj, which is considered the major pilgrimage of Islam.
- Non-Muslims are not permitted to enter the cities of Mecca and Medina.
- Umrah visas are typically issued in conjunction with a package tour organized by authorized travel agencies.
- The Saudi government has implemented various measures in recent years to streamline the Umrah visa process and facilitate smoother travel for pilgrims.
Table: Visa Type Comparison
| Visa Type | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Umrah Visa | Pilgrimage to Mecca, Medina | Usually valid for 30 days |
| Tourist Visa | Leisure, sightseeing | Varies, typically up to 90 days |
| Business Visa | Business activities | Varies, typically up to 90 days |
| Transit Visa | Layovers, connecting flights | Usually valid for a few days/hours |
Please note that the information provided is based on general knowledge and it is advisable to consult official sources or authorized travel agencies for the most up-to-date and accurate information on visa requirements and regulations for Umrah.
See the answer to your question in this video
The video discusses the difference between a tourist visa and an umrah visa for Saudi Arabia. The tourist visa, introduced in 2018, is easier to apply for and allows for umrah as well. It is valid for one year with multiple entries and exits, while the umrah visa is specifically for Muslims and has different requirements. The umrah visa requires a package with an agent, has restrictions on exploring the country, and is more expensive. The tourist visa has fewer restrictions and allows for touring the country, but may not allow tourists to bring back zamzam water. Deciding which visa to choose depends on individual preferences and circumstances.
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Travelers with Saudi Tourist Visas can travel for tourism and business purposes and perform Umrah in the country. With this visa, you can enjoy religious rituals, visit holy mosques, and engage in tourism-related activities.
Dubai: Muslims in Saudi Arabia on a visit or a tourist visa can perform Umrah after obtaining Umrah permit by completing procedures on Eatmarna and Tawakkalna apps, state media said.
Yes, you can perform Umrah with a tourist visa, and it has several advantages compared to an Umrah visa. For example, you can stay longer, and it’s issued with multiple entries. 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.
According to the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, travellers who have obtained tourist visas and commercial visas will now be allowed to perform the Umrah pilgrimage during their stay in Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Tourist Visa: The Saudi Arabia Tourist eVisa allows travelers to visit Saudi Arabia for tourism activities and business purposes and to visit Saudi citizens, such as family and friends. Muslim pilgrims can also perform Umrah with this visa outside the Hajj season.
Muslim citizens can perform umrah on the Tourist visa which could be obtained from the official website https://www.visitsaudi.com/en/ It’s a game changer. You don’t need an agent or a package for umrah you can just get it online.
The eVisa will be a one-year, multiple entry visa, allowing tourists to spend up to 90 days in the country. The tourist visa allows you to take part in tourism-related activities such as, events, family & relatives visits, leisure, and Umrah (excluding Hajj) and excludes other activities such as studying.