If you’re considering a trip to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah, you may have some questions on your mind. For instance, what’s the best way to travel – by air or by road? How long will the visa process take? And how much will hotel bookings cost?
Fortunately, the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has recently shared an informative post on its social media accounts. This post outlines the necessary steps for visiting Makkah and performing Umrah.
If you’re planning to travel by air, you’ll need to obtain a visa before your departure. The visa process typically takes around 24 hours, but it’s always best to apply well in advance to avoid any delays.
Once you arrive in Saudi Arabia, you’ll need to make your way to Makkah. This can be done by hiring a private car or taking a bus. If you’re traveling during peak season, it’s recommended that you book your transportation in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.
As for hotel bookings, there are a variety of options available to suit every budget. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly accommodations, you’re sure to find something that meets your needs.
Overall, planning a trip to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. By following the steps outlined by the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.
Step 1: Booking an Umrah package through the Nusuk platform or a licensed Umrah company
To book your Umrah trip, simply visit the website nusuk.sa and select the ‘Book your packages’ option. From there, you will be directed to a page where you can choose the type of package you desire, whether it be economy, basic, or VIP, as well as the number of nights you plan to stay.
Once you have made your selection, the website will display all available options from licensed Umrah companies, complete with package details. These details include whether or not an agent from the company will receive you at the airport, whether the visa is included in the package and the cost of the package. If you wish to contact the company directly, their contact details are also provided.
In addition to this, you can also visit the websites of registered Umrah service providers to book your itinerary. These providers are also listed on the same page for your convenience.
Booking your Umrah trip has never been easier. With just a few clicks, you can have access to a variety of packages and providers, ensuring that your journey is both comfortable and memorable.
Step 2: Apply for your visa
If you have not obtained the necessary visa during Step 1 of your booking process, don’t worry. MOHU has provided a list of options available to you. These options include a family visit visa, which can be provided by a relative residing in Saudi Arabia, or a personal visit visa, which can be provided by a Saudi citizen. Additionally, nationals of 49 countries can obtain an electronic visa upon arrival, while foreign nationals residing in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries can apply for a tourist visa. Visas can also be obtained through Saudi embassies abroad or through a stopover visa booked through Saudi Arabian carriers. Holders of a British, US, or Schengen visa can also obtain an electronic visa upon arrival.
The Ministry has stated that any visa that allows you to enter Saudi Arabia will permit you to perform Umrah. In other words, there are multiple options available to ensure that you can complete your Umrah journey without any issues.
When traveling to Saudi Arabia, it is essential to have certain apps on your phone to facilitate communication with government departments in case of any need for assistance. These apps also help in planning your journey with ease.
If you plan to avoid roaming charges by getting a local SIM card, you will need to follow a specific procedure and provide certain documents. A guide is available to help you through the process. Additionally, if you prefer to rent a car to move around the country, it is important to know the requirements and procedures for doing so.
By being prepared with the necessary information and tools, your trip to Saudi Arabia will be smoother and more enjoyable.