Umrah Visa vs Tourist Visa for Saudi Arabia: Key Differences Explained

Both options can allow Muslims to perform Umrah, but there is difference in both the visas like eligibility, process of application, validity, how long you can stay, and Hajj rules.

This guide is there to explain you the difference between umrah visa and tourist visa so you can choose the right option.

What Is an Umrah Visa?

An Umrah visa is a travel visa for Muslims who want to perform Umrah and visit Makkah and Madinah for ziyarat of holy sites. According to Nusuk, people who want to perform Umrah and do ziyarat must have an Umrah Visa.

The visa is used for the purpose of Umrah only. You cannot work in Saudi Arabia on Umrah visa, and staying for too long can cause you to pay fines, or you can be  deported, or your entry can be banned for future.

What Is a  Saudi Tourist Visa?

A Saudi tourist visa is used for tourism, but Muslim can also use it for performing Umrah. On tourist Visa, you can do tourism and Umrah while it is not allowed to perform Hajj without a Hajj visa and Umrah during the Hajj season.

Umrah Visa vs Tourist Visa: Main Differences

Eligibility for Pakistani Passport Holders

Pakistanis can easily get Umrah Visa but Pakistan is not generally among the countries that can easily get tourist eVisa for Saudi Arabia, so travelers should make sure whether they are eligible or not before thinking they can get the tourist eVisa easily.

Your passport is generally valid for at least six months after you enter Saudi. Tourists must have a passport valid for a minimum of six months.

Overseas Pakistanis

If overseas Pakistanis have a passport from a country that is eligible for eVisa, they might get the tourist visa easily if the country is listed. Saudi Arabia also allows some travelers who have US, UK, or Schengen visas to get tourist eVisas easily.

Application Procedures

Umrah Visa Application

1. You should have a valid passport, recent photo of yourself, and information of accomodation.
2. Apply through the Nusuk Umrah platform or through the authorised operator.
3. Book services such as accommodation and transport.
4. When you receive your visa and check the expiry date carefully. Saudi Arabia uses the Islamic calendar for official things.

Tourist Visa Application

1. Check whether your country is eligible or not.
2. Apply online through the Saudi eVisa portal or apply on arrival if you are eligible for that.
3. Provide passport details, personal information, and travel plannings.
4. Pay the visa fee and any insurance fees.
5. keep a copy of the visa.

Fees and Insurance

Visa fees and insurance keep changing, so it is best for you to check the final amount during the official application process. According to Nusuk, users must pay all fees for the services and that fees can change from time to time.

For people who have tourist eVisa, medical insurance is also included in the application process. For Umrah pilgrims, insurance and packages are handled by the booking platform.

FAQs

Can you perform Umrah on a tourist visa?

Yes. Muslim with a Saudi tourist visa can perform Umrah but not in the Hajj season.

Can Pakistani citizens apply for a Saudi tourist eVisa?

Most Pakistanis do not get tourist eVisa easily. Overseas Pakistanis can go through another passport or a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa.

Is a tourist visa better than an Umrah visa?

If you are eligible for a tourist visa and want to travel in Saudi Arabia and also want to perform Umrah, it can be more flexible.

Can I work in Saudi Arabia on either visa?

No.

Do I still need Nusuk for Umrah?

Yes. Nusuk is the official Ministry of Hajj and Umrah platform.