Umrah is a special journey to Mecca, and Muslims can perform it anytime. Muslims go for Umrah to seek forgiveness, spiritual purification, and closeness to Allah. Planning for umrah in 2026 from the UK? Before going for Umrah, it is important to know about the visa process, flights, and accommodations. A visa is the first step for Umrah. Knowing the Umrah visa fee from the UK, required documents, and how to apply can save time and stress.
Here’s a guide that focuses on what you need to know to apply for an Umrah visa successfully.
Types of Umrah Visa for the UK Pilgrims
Saudi Arabia issues different types of Umrah visas, and pilgrims can choose one depending on their travel plans. Here are the main types
Traditional Umrah Visa: You can apply for this visa through an approved travel agent.
Saudi Tourist e-Visa: Access online through the official Saudi e-Visa portal, with visa issuance regulated by the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
Eligibility Requirements for Umrah Visa 2026
The Saudi Arabian government requires certain criteria, whether it’s a Saudi tourist e-visa or a traditional Umrah visa:
Passport and Nationality
- UK passport holders should have at least 6 months’ validity from the entry date
- Information on passports and travel documents should match exactly.
Age Requirements
- 18+ adults can apply independently.
- Children can travel with their parents or a legal guardian.
Vaccination
- Must have proof of the Meningitis vaccination. ACWY is mandatory for all pilgrims over 1 year old.
- Requirements may change during peak season, so it is compulsory to check official guidance before Umrah.
- Take a vaccination certificate at least 10 days before departure.
Medical Insurance
- Medical insurance is mandatory that covers treatment in Saudi Arabia during your stay.
- Prefer to bring your already prescribed medicines with you.
How Much Does an Umrah Visa Cost from the UK in 2026?
For UK umrah pilgrims, it is important to understand the umrah visa 2026 cost from different routes and seasons before paying fees.
Saudi Tourist e-Visa Fees
For UK passport holders, the cost of an official tourist e visa includes.
Visa processing fee: 100 to 130 pounds. This can vary with exchange rates.
Validity: 12 months
Allow entries: Multiple entries
Maximum stay: 90 days per visit
Access: You can get complete access across Saudi Arabia
Medical insurance: Included in the e visa fees charged by the Saudi government.
Total cost of Saudi Tourist e-Visa: 100 – 140 for e-visa issues directly through the official portal.
Traditional Umrah Visa Fees
This visa is issued specifically for the Umrah pilgrimage and mostly applies through the authentic and verified Umrah travel agent.
Visa processing cost: approx 80 to 120 pounds, but may vary due to exchange rates.
Agent service fees: 30 to 100 pounds depend on the services offered by agents.
Allowed entries: Single entry only
Stay duration: 14- 30 days
Access: You are just allow to visit the Umrah places of Mecca and Madina
Total visa process charges: 120 to 220 pounds
Seasonal Pricing Notes
It is noticed that peak seasons often increase the service fees of the agents. High-demand seasons are Ramadan, Rajab, Sha’ban, and UK school holidays. Some agencies raise fees by 20 to 40 percent during these times. Instead of that, Safar or Jumada are off-peak seasons, and agents charge lower fees in these months. Moreover, official e-visa prices from the UK are generally stable, but the processing time takes longer during the peak umrah season days. Mostly, pilgrims book early through the agents who can help to secure a hotel choice.
Timing and Processing Considerations
- You should apply for the visa at least 4 to 6 weeks before departure, especially during Ramadan or pre-Hajj periods.
- The official e-visa process takes 24 to 72 hours.
- Agent-assisted visas may take 2 to 7 business days.
- Peak season for Umrah can affect both processing times and available hotel bookings.
Step-by-Step Visa Application Process for Umrah from the UK
Here is a step-by-step guide for the UK pilgrims.
- Firstly, choose a visa type that fits your travel needs.
- Check eligibility requirements.
- Arrange the required documents.
- Apply e-visa online or a traditional visa through an ATOL-protected travel agent.
- Pay visa fees, VAT fees, or service charges.
- Receive a confirmation email for the e-visa or receive an approved visa from the agent.
Checklist Before Submission
Both official e-visa and agent visa require similar documents. It is necessary to arrange all the documents before applying for the visa.
- Valid UK passport with at least 6 months’ validity
- Recent passport size photograph meeting the e-Visa standard.
- Confirmed accommodation bookings in Makkah and Madina.
- Flight booking proof
- Medical Insurance is Mandatory
- Meningitis ACWY vaccination certificate according to the rules.
- Payment proof for visa and insurance.
Tips for Choosing a Trusted Umrah Travel Agency in the UK
Many travel agencies are offering Umrah packages 2026 in the UK. Agents for Umrah visa services are available in London, Birmingham, and Manchester. Before choosing an agency, it helps to know where to look and what to check when comparing Umrah travel agents in the UK.
- Choose an ATOL-protected agent.
- Make sure the agent is licensed and legally approved.
- Read recent customer reviews online about the services of the agent.
- Ask friends or family experience of Umrah for recommendations.
- Personal referrals can be helpful to avoid common issues.
Plan Your Umrah Journey with Ziyuf Al Rahman
If you want guidance for a visa application, you can trust Ziyuf Al Rahman to help. Our team understands the Umrah process and supports you at every step. We assist you with a UK Umrah visa, planning, and a complete guide on how to perform Umrah. Reach out today to discuss your Umrah plans with confidence and clarity, and take the next step toward a well-prepared journey.
