Seamless Spirituality: Understanding SAUDI VISA ON ARRIVAL and the SAUDI VISA FOR MAKKAH PILGRIMAGE

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, home to the holiest sites in Islam, has embarked on an ambitious journey to welcome more visitors, both for tourism and spiritual pilgrimage.1 While the traditional visa application process remains for many, significant reforms have introduced new pathways for entry.2 This article will delve into the concept of a Saudi visa on arrival and clarify its applicability to the sacred Saudi visa for Makkah pilgrimage, specifically Umrah.

The Evolution of SAUDI VISA ON ARRIVAL

The Saudi visa on arrival program represents a monumental shift in Saudi Arabia's approach to international visitors. Prior to recent reforms, obtaining a visa often required extensive pre-planning and embassy visits. Now, for citizens of over 60 eligible countries, as well as certain visa or residency holders, the option to secure a visa upon landing at a Saudi port of entry has become a reality.3

Who is eligible for a Saudi visa on arrival?

Generally, eligibility falls into a few key categories:

• Citizens of Eligible Countries: A substantial list of countries, primarily from North America, Europe, parts of Asia, and Oceania, can obtain a visa on arrival. This list is frequently updated, so checking the official Visit Saudi website or the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) portal is crucial.

• Holders of Valid US, UK, or Schengen Visas: Travelers with a valid tourist or business visa issued by the United States, the United Kingdom, or a Schengen member state are often eligible for a visa on arrival.4 A key condition is that this visa must have been used at least once to enter the issuing country.

• Permanent Residents of US, UK, or EU: Individuals holding permanent residency in the United States, the United Kingdom, or the European Union may also qualify for a visa on arrival, along with their first-degree relatives traveling with them.5

• GCC Residents: Residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, UAE) can apply for a Saudi e-Visa online if they hold a valid occupation and a residency valid for at least three months.6 While not strictly "on arrival" in the same sense as the tourist visa, it's a streamlined process. GCC nationals, on the other hand, enjoy visa-free entry.7

Important Notes on Visa on Arrival:

• Purpose: The visa on arrival is typically a tourist visa, allowing for various activities including leisure, visiting relatives, attending events, and critically, performing Umrah (outside of the Hajj season).8 It is not valid for long-term work or study.

• Validity and Duration: These visas are usually multiple-entry, valid for one year, allowing stays of up to 90 days per visit.

• Payment: Payment for the visa on arrival is generally accepted via international credit or debit cards in Saudi Riyals.

• It is always advisable to apply for an e-Visa online prior to travel, even if eligible for a visa on arrival. This helps avoid potential queues, delays, or unforeseen issues at the airport. The e-Visa offers the same benefits with the added convenience of pre-approval.

The Sacred Path: SAUDI VISA FOR MAKKAH PILGRIMAGE

For Muslims worldwide, the ultimate spiritual aspiration is to undertake a pilgrimage to Makkah. This encompasses both Umrah (the "minor pilgrimage") and Hajj (the "major pilgrimage"). The Saudi visa for Makkah pilgrimage refers to the specific authorization required for these sacred journeys.

Understanding the Two Pilgrimages and Their Visa Requirements:

1. Umrah: Umrah can be performed at any time of the year, outside of the designated Hajj season. As mentioned, for many eligible nationalities, the Tourist eVisa or Visa on Arrival now serves as the Saudi visa for Makkah pilgrimage (Umrah).9 This means that if your nationality qualifies for the tourist e-Visa or visa on arrival, you can use it to perform Umrah.

• Crucial Recent Changes (as of July 2025): The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has implemented significant changes for Umrah pilgrims. Regardless of your visa type (including tourist e-Visa/visa on arrival), pilgrims are now mandated to book their entire Umrah package (accommodation for the entire stay, transportation, and potentially other services) through the official Nusuk Masar platform or through a licensed Umrah agent utilizing Nusuk Masar.10 Independent bookings of accommodation and travel are no longer permitted for Umrah visa applicants. Pilgrims must also travel as part of a registered group. This ensures better organization and support.

2. Hajj: Hajj is the annual pilgrimage that takes place during a specific period of the Islamic calendar (Dhul Hijjah).11 A dedicated Hajj visa is absolutely mandatory for Hajj.12 The tourist e-Visa or visa on arrival cannot be used for Hajj. Hajj visas are issued for a limited period, are free of charge, and are highly regulated due to the immense number of pilgrims.13

• Hajj Visa Process: Hajj visas are not issued to individuals directly. Pilgrims must apply through a licensed Hajj travel agency authorized by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in their respective countries.14 These agencies handle all aspects of the Hajj package, including visa application, accommodation, transportation, and services in Makkah and Madinah.

• Nusuk Hajj Platform: For many international pilgrims, the official Nusuk Hajj platform (separate from Nusuk Masar for Umrah packages) is now the primary gateway for booking Hajj packages, applying for Hajj permits and visas.15 This platform centralizes the process and is mandatory for eligible countries.

• Strict Timelines: Hajj visas and permits are issued within strict timelines leading up to the Hajj season, and pilgrims must adhere to designated entry and exit dates.16 Overstaying a Hajj visa carries severe penalties.17

Preparing for Your Journey to Makkah:

Whether utilizing a Saudi visa on arrival for Umrah or embarking on the structured Hajj visa process, several common requirements and recommendations apply:

• Valid Passport: At least six months validity from your entry date.18

• Vaccination Certificate: Mandatory Meningococcal Quadrivalent (ACWY) vaccination, typically administered at least 10 days before arrival and valid for up to three years. Other vaccinations may be advised or required based on health advisories.

• Health Insurance: Included with the e-Visa/visa on arrival, but comprehensive travel insurance is always recommended.

• Nusuk App: Essential for managing Umrah permits and accessing facilities in the Haramain (Grand Mosque and Prophet's Mosque).19

• Cultural and Religious Adherence: Respect local laws, customs, and dress codes.20 Makkah and Madinah are holy cities with strict rules.21

In conclusion, Saudi Arabia has significantly simplified entry for many, with the Saudi visa on arrival now extending to those performing Umrah. However, it's critical to distinguish this from the highly regulated Hajj visa. For any Saudi visa for Makkah pilgrimage, staying updated with the latest regulations, especially the new mandatory integrated booking requirements via Nusuk platforms, is absolutely essential for a smooth, blessed, and compliant spiritual journey.