Are you an Indian citizen to complete the Umrah pilgrimage for Muslims? You are in the proper place. You may read about the Saudi Arabia Umrah Visa application process for Indians in this comprehensive guide!
For travel to Saudi Arabia for tourism or Umrah, Indian citizens must obtain a visa. Visit Saudi Arabia Visa is currently able to assist you with your application for an Umrah visa from India, but in this article, we will explain:
- If Indian citizens need a visa to perform Umrah
- Which Saudi Arabia Visa you can apply for as an Indian citizen
- What the differences are between the Tourist Visa and the Umrah Visa
- Can Indian citizens apply for a Saudi Arabia Visa online?
- Is there a Saudi Arabia Visa on Arrival for Indian citizens?
- What Are The Saudi Arabia Visa fees for Indians?
- What is the Saudi Visa processing time?
- What is the Saudi Visa validity?
Check our ultimate Saudi Arabia 30 days Umrah Visa for more info about attractions, the best time to visit, and transportation.
Do Indian citizens need a visa to perform Umrah in Saudi Arabia?
The answer to the question is a resounding yes – Indian citizens do require a visa to perform Umrah in Saudi Arabia.
However, Saudi Arabia has varying qualifying requirements for different nationalities, the application process may not appear to be as simple as it is for many other visas.
Please keep reading all details clearly and you need to know about the Saudi Arabia Umrah Visa options for citizens of India.
Why go to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah?
Labbayka Allahumma Umrah!
Muslim citizens from all over the world, including India, yearn for the chance to utter those words and follow in the steps of the Prophet, may peace and prayers be upon him, and perform Umrah.
Seekers of spiritual enlightenment find their compass pointing towards Saudi Arabia for the profound journey of Umrah. Within the heart of this desert kingdom lies Mecca, the epicenter of Islam, where believers converge to perform the sacred rituals of Umrah. The pilgrimage is a testament to faith’s depth and devotion, an opportunity to cleanse the soul and draw closer to Allah. The spiritual aura of Saudi Arabia resonates with every footstep taken on the hallowed grounds of Mecca and Medina. Umrah isn’t just a journey; it’s a profound encounter with faith, a timeless connection to history, and an exploration of one’s spiritual identity.
Indian citizens planning to visit the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for Umrah must have a valid Umrah Visa.
All you need to know about Saudi Arabia Umrah Visa for citizens of India
As previously stated, Indian nationals who intend to do Umrah in Saudi Arabia must get an Visa For Umrah . This is a legal travel document that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) issued for you to enter the country and complete the Umrah pilgrimage.
Hajj cannot be performed with this visa. During this time, a unique Hajj visa is needed.
Indian nationals must first ascertain which Saudi Arabia visa they are qualified for based on the requirements in order to apply for a separate Umrah visa. Find out which visa to apply for and how to do so by reading on.
Eligibility criteria for obtaining an Umrah Visa
Infortunately, Indian citizens cannot apply for a Saudi Arabia Tourist e-Visa (also sometimes called the Umrah e-Visa) online with Visit Saudi Arabia Visa.
To apply for a visa for Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah, check the following options:
If you are a GCC resident, you are eligible to apply for the official Umrah Visa online through the Saudi Arabian government or a tour package.
Indian nationals who are permanent residents or visa holders of the United States, United Kingdom, or EU/Schengen, may be eligible for a visa on arrival in Saudi Arabia (conditions apply), or a tour package.
If you do not meet the above exceptions, you will only be eligible to apply for the Umrah Visa through package option. This can be obtained by booking an Umrah tour package online through one of the reputable and approved service providers, or visiting one of your local approved travel agencies.
Unfortunately, Visit Saudi Arabia Visa cannot currently accommodate Umrah Visa applications part of a package, and citizens of India are not eligible for the Saudi Arabia Tourist e-Visa option we offer.
If you are not a citizen of India, check your eligibility for the Saudi Arabia Tourist e-Visa with our handy Visa Checker Tool!
Step-by-step guide to applying for an Umrah Visa
Step 1: Choose an Authorized Travel Agency:
Select a reputable travel agency authorized by the Saudi Arabian government to facilitate Umrah visas. Research their credentials and services.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents:
Collect necessary documents, including a valid passport, recent passport-sized photographs, and any other documents specified by the agency.
Step 3: Complete Application Form:
Fill out the Umrah visa application form accurately. Provide personal details, travel intentions, and contact information.
Step 4: Submit Documents to the Agency:
Submit your passport, photographs, application form, and additional documents to the travel agency. Ensure all documents are in order.
Step 5: Confirm Travel Dates:
Decide on your travel dates and communicate them to the agency. The agency will align your visa with these dates.
Step 6: Await Visa Approval:
The agency will process your application and submit it to Saudi authorities. Await confirmation of your Umrah visa approval.
Step 7: Receive Visa and Itinerary:
Once your visa is approved, the agency will provide you with the Umrah visa stamp on your passport and your travel itinerary.
Step 8: Pre-Travel Preparations:
Prepare for your journey by arranging flights, accommodation, and transportation. Gather essentials for your trip.
Step 9: Engage in Spiritual Preparation:
Engage in acts of devotion, seek guidance from religious leaders, and prepare your heart and mind for the spiritual journey.
Step 10: Departure:
Arrive at the departure point as per your itinerary. Ensure you have all necessary documents, including your passport with the Umrah visa.
Step 11: Perform Umrah Rituals:
Upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, engage in the sacred rituals of Umrah with reverence and devotion.
Step 12: Register on the Umrah apps. Once you enter the country, you need to download two obligatory apps on your phone:
The Tawakkalna app, which works only in Saudi Arabia and will contain all your vaccination records. You need this to which you need to display when you enter hotels, restaurants, and the masjids.
The Eatamarna/Nusuk app, which allows you to get prayer permits and have them linked to your Tawakalna.
Step 13: Completion of Umrah:
Once you’ve completed the rituals, return to your home country within the visa’s specified validity.
Saudi Arabia Umrah Visa costs: what to expect
The Umrah Visa application costs between US$380 to US$490. But, the visa fees vary from country to country.
Additionally, foreign pilgrims must pay for the Umrah travel package, raising the overall cost of Umrah to between US$1,500 to US$2,000.
How long is the Umrah Visa valid for?
The official Umrah Visa is valid for two weeks. But, if you are performing Umrah during Ramadan, you must leave by the last day of the holy month regardless of whether you have stayed for two weeks.
What is the Umrah Visa processing time?
In normal circumstances, an Umrah visa takes five to ten days to finish processing, depending on your country of residence.
However, apply as early as you can, as you still have to book other travel arrangements and gather documents.
Tips for a successful Umrah trip
Embarking on an Umrah journey is a profound and transformative experience. Here are some tips to ensure your trip is successful, spiritually enriching, and memorable:
Set Pure Intentions: Approach your Umrah journey with sincere intentions and a heart filled with devotion. Focus on seeking Allah’s pleasure and drawing closer to Him.
Learn the Rituals: Study the Umrah rituals thoroughly before your trip. Understand the significance and order of each step to enhance your engagement and connection.
Physical Preparation: Engage in physical activities and maintain good health before the journey. Umrah involves walking and standing, so being physically fit is beneficial.
Pack Wisely: Pack modest clothing, comfortable footwear, and personal essentials. Don’t forget a prayer mat, a copy of the Quran, and any prescribed medications.
Be Patient: Be prepared for crowds and wait times during rituals. Exercise patience and maintain a calm demeanor, remembering the spiritual purpose of your journey.
Stay Hydrated: Mecca’s climate can be hot. Keep yourself hydrated, especially during Tawaf and Sa’i.
Maintain Hygiene: Stay clean and well-groomed, especially before entering the Masjid al-Haram. Personal hygiene is an integral part of Islamic practice.
Respect Local Customs: Familiarize yourself with Saudi Arabian customs and cultural norms. Dress modestly and show respect for the local culture.
Stay Connected Spiritually: Engage in additional acts of worship, such as extra prayers, recitation of the Quran, and supplications. Utilize your time to maximize your spiritual connection.
Seek Guidance: Approach religious scholars or knowledgeable individuals to seek guidance on any aspect of your journey or any questions you may have.
