Pilgrim Visas for Saudi Arabia

Updated on Dec 11, 2024 | Saudi e-Visa

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is a great spiritual country. They welcome millions of pilgrims each year. Pilgrims love the country and fly to perform Hajj and Umrah.

If you wish to be one of those pilgrims then you are at the right place. In this article, we are going to walk you through the Pilgrim visas for Saudi Arabia.

Saudi e-Visa

Saudi Arabia introduced an electronic visa in 2019, to make travel easier. This Saudi e-Visa is applied and obtained through online. It only takes 15-20 minutes to fill out an application. You will get the update of your application form within 72 hours. According to the purpose of travel, travelers can opt for one e-Visa type. There is an e-Visa for the Umrah pilgrimage. Saudi Umrah e-Visa has a validity of 1 year, pilgrims can enter the country multiple times and stay 90 days continuously within the validity period.

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The Hajj visa and the Umrah visa are two distinct forms of Saudi Arabian visas that are offered for religious travel, in addition to the new electronic visa for visitors. Yet to make the Umrah pilgrimage easier, the new tourist eVisa can also be employed. Learn more at Saudi Arabia Umrah Visa.

Hajj Visa

Performing Hajj is considered one of the most important duties of a Muslim’s life. Hajj is a sacred pilgrimage that should be done at least once in the lifetime of a Muslim. Those who are financially and physically fit must perform Hajj at least once. Pilgrims can obtain a Hajj visa by visiting any consulates or embassies.

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Travelers can skip lengthy lines at the border by applying for a Saudi Arabia eVisa before travel. A visa on arrival (VOA) is available to nationals of certain nations in Saudi Arabia. There are many options for international tourists to Saudi Arabia to receive travel authorization. Learn more at Saudi Arabia Visa On Arrival.

Difference between Hajj and Umrah

Hajj and Umrah are different. Let’s find out the difference-

Umrah

The Umrah pilgrimage, also known as the "lesser pilgrimage," can be performed at any time of year and involves customs like walking around the Kaaba, the holiest place in Islam, wearing Ihram, a white garment, performing Sa'i, or walking between the hills of Safa and Marwa, and cutting one's hair. The Umrah pilgrimage is extremely important spiritually because it enables Muslims to express gratitude, ask for forgiveness, and deepen their relationship with Allah.

Hajj

The Hajj, which takes place between the 8th and 12th of Dhul-Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic calendar, is a mandatory pilgrimage for Muslims. It commemorates the suffering of Prophet Muhammad, Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), and their families.

Both differ in validity, timing, purpose, and application process.

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With the advent of the online Saudi Arabia visa, travel to Saudi Arabia is set to become significantly simpler. Before visiting Saudi Arabia, tourists are urged to familiarize themselves with the local way of life and learn about any potential gaffes that might land them in hot water. Learn more at Saudi Arabia Laws for Tourists.

Important Information for Pilgrims

  • Hajj Dates and Visa Applications - Hajj visas are available from mid-Shawwal to the 25th of Dhu al-Qa’dah (Islamic calendar months. Please apply early since millions of pilgrims apply for Hajj visas every year.
  • Umrah and Staying in Saudi Arabia - Unlike Hajj Umrah can be performed any time of the year except during Hajj.
  • Islamic Calendar - Hajj and Umrah dates change every year. The Islamic calendar dates follow the lunar. So please ensure to check the dates before planning.
  • Only Muslims are allowed - Non-Muslims cannot perform Hajj or enter the city of Mecca.
  • Health Requirements- Please ensure to meet all vaccination and health requirements.

Performing Hajj and Umrah is an enlightening thing in one's life. Try not to miss any chance to come by your way.

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Using the website of the Online Saudi Arabia, you may rapidly apply for a Saudi Arabia e-Visa. The procedure is easy and uncomplicated. You may finish the Saudi Arabia e-visa application in only 5 minutes. Go to the website, click "Apply Online," and adhere to the instructions. Learn more at Complete Guide to Saudi Arabia e-Visa.


Check your eligibility for Online Saudi Visa and apply for Online Saudi Visa 72 hours in advance of your flight. Swiss citizens, Canadian citizens, French citizens, Spanish Citizens, Uzbekistan Citizens and Italian citizens can apply online for Online Saudi Visa.