First things first: where to find the right information
Saudi visa and Umrah rules keep evolving, and what was true a year ago may not be true today. Length of stay, eligible nationalities, insurance requirements, and when the Umrah season closes before Hajj and reopens afterwards can all change. So this article won't give you numbers that may go out of date. Instead it maps the route: the known options, where to verify them, and what to do after your visa is issued, right up to the moment you reach the Haram. Your primary sources should always be the official ones: the Nusuk platform, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' unified visa platform, and the Saudi embassy in your country.
Known routes to a visa that allows Umrah
| Route | Usually suits | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Umrah visa | Travellers whose main purpose is Umrah, via Nusuk or authorised providers | Validity, length of stay and what the package includes |
| Tourist visa | Citizens of eligible countries and others who meet its conditions | Your eligibility, and whether it permits Umrah on your travel dates |
| Family or personal visit visas | Relatives of residents or guests of citizens | Invitation rules and required documents |
| Transit-linked visa | Travellers passing through the Kingdom on qualifying flights | Whether it's still offered, its duration and conditions |
Use this table for orientation only. The final word is whatever the official platform says when you apply.
After your visa is issued: a pilgrim's checklist
- Nusuk account: register, check your details, and learn how to book your Umrah permit and a permit to pray in the Rawdah.
- Vaccinations: check the Saudi Ministry of Health requirements for travellers from your country. They can differ by country and by season.
- Health insurance: find out what your cover includes and whether it's bundled with your visa.
- Document copies: keep your passport, visa and hotel booking on your phone and on paper.
- Ihram: if you're flying in with the intention of Umrah, enter ihram before passing the miqat. Airlines usually announce it beforehand. Pack your ihram clothing in your cabin bag, not your checked luggage.
From the airport to the Haram
Most pilgrims arrive through King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, and some through Madinah. Once you're through immigration and have your bags, there are two main options: the Haramain train followed by a ride from Makkah station to your hotel, or a private car from the arrivals hall straight to your hotel. The private car is usually easier for anyone arriving in ihram with family and luggage, who wants to reach the Haram and perform Umrah without several changes.
With us, the driver waits in arrivals with a sign bearing your name, we track your flight, and you get 60 minutes of free waiting from landing. The service is described on our Jeddah Airport to Makkah transfer page.
| Route | Sedan | Family | VIP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jeddah Airport to Makkah | 200 SAR | 350 SAR | 500 SAR |
| Jeddah Airport to Madinah | 500 SAR | 700 SAR | 1000 SAR |
| Madinah Airport to hotel | 100 SAR | 200 SAR | 300 SAR |
| Makkah to Madinah | 400 SAR | 600 SAR | 1000 SAR |
Fares are fixed per car and paid on arrival. More in the taxi fare guide.
Tips from the road
- If you land late at night after a long flight, it's fine to rest at the hotel for a while before performing Umrah.
- The hours after midnight and before Fajr are often less crowded in the mataf.
- Save your hotel's name and map location. Many hotels around the Haram have similar names.
- For families and elderly travellers, choose a vehicle that fits everyone and the bags together. See the fleet page.
- Keep a small bag with water, any medication and your phone charger within reach for the drive.
Common questions
Can I perform Umrah on a tourist visa?
This has been permitted at various times under certain conditions, but the rules can be updated and may depend on the season. Check the current position on Nusuk before you travel.
How long can I stay?
It depends on the visa type and can be revised. Go by what is stated on your visa and on the official platform.
Do you help with visa applications?
No, we only provide transport. Once you have your visa, we arrange your pickup and your rides between Jeddah, Makkah and Madinah.
Once your visa is ready, send us your flight number on WhatsApp +966582918075 or book through the booking page.