Umrah on a Saudi Tourist Visa from the UAE: What You Need to Know
Planning Umrah from the UAE? How the tourist e-Visa works for Umrah, booking through Nusuk, the Hajj-season restriction, and a simple travel checklist.
Travelax Visa TeamDubai Marina, UAE
3 min read
For many families in the UAE, Umrah is a short drive or flight away. Since Saudi Arabia opened the tourist e-Visa to Umrah, performing it has become much simpler. Here is what you need to know.
Can I perform Umrah on a tourist visa?
Yes. Holders of the Saudi tourist e-Visa can perform Umrah outside the Hajj season. During Hajj, only Hajj visas are valid for the pilgrimage, and Umrah on other visas is restricted for a period around Hajj.
Step 1: Get the right visa
Your options depend on your nationality and status – see our Saudi e-Visa guide:
- Eligible nationalities: tourist e-Visa online
- Holders of used US, UK or Schengen visas: tourist e-Visa
- GCC residents: GCC-resident e-Visa route (conditions apply)
- Otherwise: an Umrah visa through a licensed operator
Step 2: Book your Umrah permit on Nusuk
Permits for Umrah and for visiting the Rawdah in Madinah are booked through the official Nusuk platform. Book your time slot after you have your visa and travel dates.
Step 3: Plan your travel
- By road: many UAE residents drive via the Ghuwaifat border – check vehicle insurance and border requirements.
- By air: direct flights to Jeddah and Madinah from Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah.
- Hotels: book close to the Haram, especially during Ramadan and school holidays.
Umrah travel checklist
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- Saudi visa and health insurance
- UAE residence visa valid for your return
- Nusuk permit confirmation
- Vaccination certificates required by the Saudi Ministry of Health (check the current list before travel)
- Ihram clothing for men and suitable clothing for women
Travelling with women under 18 or children? Check the current guardianship and documentation rules before booking.
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Send us your nationality and travel dates – we'll check the fastest visa route and apply for you. Saudi visa service.
Frequently asked questions
Can I do Umrah on a Saudi tourist e-Visa?
Yes, outside the Hajj season. Book your Umrah permit through the Nusuk platform.
Do I need a Nusuk permit for Umrah?
Yes. Umrah permits and Rawdah visit slots are booked through the official Nusuk platform.
Can UAE residents drive to Saudi Arabia for Umrah?
Yes, many do via the Ghuwaifat border. Make sure your visa, vehicle insurance and documents are in order.
Please note: visa rules change often. This guide is general information for UAE residents and was last reviewed on 6 Oct 2026. Always confirm the current requirements for your nationality before you apply – our consultants do this for free. Travelax is a private agency and is not affiliated with any embassy or government.
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