Can You Perform Umrah on a Saudi eVisa in 2025 Full Guide for UK Pilgrims
Wondering if you can perform Umrah on a Saudi eVisa in 2025? This complete UK guide explains visa types, requirements, and how to apply online easily.
It’s a common concern. Every year, I speak with British families, students, and elderly couples who are confused by the different visa types. With Saudi Arabia making several changes recently, the rules can feel overwhelming.
Don’t worry, this guide will walk you through everything clearly. We’ll cover what the Saudi eVisa is, how it compares to the traditional Umrah visa, and whether you should choose one over the other depending on your situation.
👉 Need stress-free Umrah packages from the UK? Contact our team for tailored guidance today.
What is the Saudi eVisa?
The Saudi eVisa was introduced in 2019 as part of the Kingdom’s vision to open its doors wider to the world. It’s available entirely online, which makes it quick and simple compared to the older paper-based visas.
- Multiple entry: Valid for 1 year, allowing you to enter Saudi multiple times.
- Stay duration: Up to 90 days per visit.
- Eligible countries: Over 60, including the UK.
- Purpose: Tourism, family visits, attending events… and yes, now Umrah (outside Hajj season).
This is a big shift. Previously, you couldn’t use a tourist visa for Umrah. But now, UK pilgrims can conveniently perform Umrah using the eVisa, provided it’s not during the official Hajj period.
What is an Umrah Visa?
The Umrah visa is the traditional, religious visa issued specifically for the pilgrimage. You normally apply through a licensed UK travel agent, who submits your details to the Saudi authorities.
- Validity: Around 30 days.
- Entry type: Single entry only.
- Purpose: Strictly for Umrah, not for sightseeing or general tourism.
- Restrictions: You’re mainly limited to Makkah, Madinah, and Jeddah.
This works well for pilgrims whose only goal is to complete Umrah and return home but it’s less flexible if you want to combine your pilgrimage with a bit of historical sightseeing or family visits in Saudi.
Can You Perform Umrah on a Saudi eVisa in 2025?
The short answer is yes.
If you’re a UK citizen, you can perform Umrah with the Saudi eVisa in 2025, as long as it’s outside of the Hajj season. This has been confirmed by official Saudi updates and is already being used by thousands of pilgrims.
That means you don’t necessarily need a separate Umrah visa anymore. For many of my clients — especially younger families or repeat travelers — the eVisa is now the more convenient option.
👉 Planning Umrah this year? Speak to our UK consultants for the latest Saudi visa updates.
Saudi eVisa vs Umrah Visa – Key Differences for Pilgrims
To make it easier, here’s a simple comparison table:
Keywords woven in: Umrah visa vs Saudi eVisa cost, Saudi tourist visa for Umrah pilgrims, which visa better for Umrah UK.
Benefits of Using a Saudi eVisa for Umrah
Here are the main reasons many UK pilgrims are now choosing the eVisa:
- Flexibility: Perform Umrah and also visit other Saudi cities like Riyadh, Taif, or the heritage site of AlUla.
- Multiple trips: Handy if you want to travel again within the year — e.g., Umrah in Ramadan and another short visit later.
- Quick process: Apply online, no need for an agent or physical paperwork.
- Good for families: You can apply together, making travel with kids smoother.
For example, one of my clients, a family from Birmingham, used the eVisa last year to perform Umrah in Ramadan and then returned in December to visit relatives in Riyadh — all under the same visa.
Limitations & Things to Keep in Mind
The Saudi eVisa isn’t perfect for everyone. Here are a few important caveats:
- Not valid for Hajj. You still need a special Hajj visa if you intend to perform Hajj.
- Eligible countries only. Thankfully, the UK is included, but not all nationalities are.
- Independent planning required. Flights, hotels, and ground transport are not bundled in, unlike many Umrah visa packages.
- Local laws. You’ll still need to respect Saudi dress codes, prayer times, and rules. (Tip: carry an Ihram guide if it’s your first pilgrimage to avoid common mistakes.)
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Saudi eVisa (UK Pilgrims)
Applying is straightforward:
- Visit the official Saudi eVisa portal.
- Fill out your personal details.
- Upload a passport photo and scan of your passport.
- Pay online (credit/debit card).
- Receive your eVisa by email, usually within 24–48 hours.
Documents needed: Valid UK passport (6 months+), recent passport photo, payment card, email address.
👉 If you’d prefer a hassle-free service, our UK-based team can manage your entire Umrah visa process — enquire today.
Which Visa is Best for You in 2025?
This is where it depends on your situation:
- First-time pilgrim, only Umrah planned? The Umrah visa might still suit you.
- Want flexibility or multiple trips in a year? The eVisa is a much better choice.
- Example scenarios:
- Retired couple from Manchester visiting family in Riyadh + Umrah → eVisa.
- Young student group performing Umrah only → Umrah visa.
- Businessman who travels to KSA regularly → eVisa.
Remember, think about your trip purpose and future plans before deciding.
FAQs About Performing Umrah on a Saudi eVisa
Is Saudi eVisa valid for Umrah in 2025?
Yes, for UK and other eligible countries, except during Hajj season.
Can I perform Hajj with a Saudi eVisa?
No, you must apply for a special Hajj visa through official channels.
How long can I stay in Saudi with an eVisa?
Up to 90 days per visit, within the 1-year validity.
Do children need a separate eVisa for Umrah?
Yes, each passport holder (including children) needs their own visa.
Can I use the eVisa for multiple Umrah trips?
Yes, as long as your eVisa is still valid. Many UK families are already doing this.
Final Thoughts – Saudi eVisa Makes Umrah Easier in 2025
To summarise: yes, you can perform Umrah on a Saudi eVisa in 2025. It’s quick, flexible, and often more cost-effective for UK pilgrims compared to the traditional Umrah visa.
The best choice depends on your travel style. If you’re looking for a straightforward, one-time Umrah trip, the Umrah visa works fine. But if you want flexibility, sightseeing, or repeat trips, the Saudi eVisa is the way forward.
👉 Ready to plan your Umrah journey? Contact Us today for packages, flights, and Jeddah airport pickup.
👉 Book your Umrah cab now for safe and reliable family Umrah transport.
✦ If you found this guide useful, you might also like our post: [Top 10 Places for Affordable Food Near Haram Makkah (Pilgrim Guide)].
