I know many of you have asked when will the Umrah visa for 2019 – 2020 open, well the Umrah visas are now open but the new rules and regulations are still a mess.
If you are a regular reader on MuslimTravelGirl.com you know I always say that you should wait for the Umrah rules to be announced before making reservations. In the past week there were so many people who emailed (over 300) saying they have booked Umrah and agents are telling them different stories.
I will try to make the Umrah visa rules for 2019 – 2020 simple, please read them carefully and keep updated as I am sure they will change during the coming weeks.
Saudi Tourist Visa
The new tourist visa is available now. If your country is eligible you just hit the “Umrah jackpot” because now you can issue your own visa and travel.
If you belong to one of the 49countries that can issue a visa online via their website, you can now have your own tourist multi-entry visa for Saudi Arabia with which you can also perform Umrah and also explore the country as a tourist.
This is a great opportunity for those who were planning Umrah to save money on the visa. Currently, the tourist visa which allows you to perform Umrah costs £94 where the Umrah visa which has stricter conditions costs £250. For anyone belonging to these 49 countries, it makes sense to apply for the tourist visa and save the cash.
I have a full article on this so please make sure you read it as I will not be answering questions on it here. We have over 100 comments and everything you need to know if in the article.
The visa takes from 5 minutes ( my own) to a day in some cases for some of our readers.
Umrah Visa Fees for 2019-2020 Season
The Umrah season is now open, but what a mess if I may say!
It was supposed to open on the 1st of September but got delayed because Saudi style they wanted to implement a totally new system last minute.
It is still early days, as of writing this article there are still changes which I am monitoring.
The 2000 SAR fee is removed!
The repeat Umrah visa fee is removed, this means that those who have been to Umrah last year won’t pay to go now. Many people are winners on this.
However, as with everything there are also losers. Up until now, the Umrah visa from Saudi Arabia was free for all pilgrims, this meant the visa price you used to pay of £80 (which back then seemed a lot to many) was simply agent fees and processing.
Now, Saudi has introduced a fee for the visa of about 300SAR /£80 and then has introduced some other taxes on hotels, transfers and VAT soon, this takes the cost of the visa up to around £250/ £300 per person depending on your agent. Even for children.
This is a lot of money for a visa especially because it went from around £80 to £280 in a year.
People who are going for the first time to perform Umrah are actually losing and those who visit every year actually save about £150 per visa.
In short from this Umrah season 2019 -2020 onwards Saudi Arabian Umrah visas will cost around £250 per person.
Prince Visa who I recommend as a reliable agent offers a discount for MuslimTravelGirl’s readers from the UK. The price for an Umrah visa with the MTG discount is £230 per person!
Just make sure you mention our site when you call them for details.
I will announce the discount rate once we have settled into the new system.
We don’t receive a cut from this but with thousands of people reading the site on advice for Umrah, it is a great sadaqa.
We always appreciate duas though. 🙂
New Umrah E-Visa
The Umrah E-visa which is a great new system and makes things much easier is still being implemented so you won’t need to send your passport to your agent in order for them to issue you the visa.
However, the processing times which were 24hrs before have now increased to about 10 days due to the new regulations.
Umrah Visa Rules for 2019-2020 Season
Now, the BIGGEST game changer is that Saudi Arabia can made “complulsory” the package booking, which is were most of the problems come from.
They require in order to issue you the visa to have booked your hotels and transportation through approved websites and give the BRN code to the agent.
Now, this is what has created the mess because obviously it has not been implemented properly and the system is not working 100% yet.
I knew something is coming up because of last year’s MoU between the Hajj Ministry and Agoda, the online booking site. But I didn’t expect this to be compulsory.
Basically what Saudi is saying to pilgrims is that they need to book their HOTEL and TRANSPORT their approved sites, get a code and provide that to the agent so they can issue the visa.
The approved sites at the moment are:
Currently, these sites are the only approved ones.
Umrah Me and Tripshop have sent a tweet saying they are having issues and you cannot book yet!
Also if for example, you use Agoda to book your hotels you will have to book your transport only on Tripshop which gives you different code for your agent, some of these also apparently don’t work making it even messier for agents and travellers.
If you have booked travel and flights/hotels already please contact your agent to see what can be done in this case so you don’t lose your money. In the UK our recommended agent below will be happy to help and guide you.
I know Saudi has an issue with people booking hotels and then cancelling and staying with friends, I know hotels complain about pilgrims doing this and also I know some scam agents book non-existent hotels and people are left with no hotel upon arrival.
I also see why they would like transport booked, taxis and transport companies are a monopoly in Saudi and especially we here recommend using Uber and Careem, so it is a lot of business for many.
I have always said and it is a well-known fact that Umrah and Hajj are big business for many people and with the Saudi 2030 vision of 30million they are trying to find a system to capitalise on this.
Also, I cannot see many of the big booking sites that people use like Booking.com/ Expedia being happy that they have been ignored by this ruling.
As of now, I will withhold booking anything and just wait a couple of weeks especially if you are planning on going end of October or November onwards.
If you are going earlier contact your agent for information, on how you can proceed. If in the UK I recommend Prince Visa.
If you have not booked anything yet, just wait a couple of weeks until it becomes clearer if they will keep this system or remove it and allow only Umrah visas to be issued.
Is DIY Umrah Dead?
No, I don’t think DIY Umrah will go anywhere, even before we became the biggest site for Umrah tips and tricks and agents were saying they don’t allow Umrah visa only, there were people going on DIY.
When there is a will there is a way and sadly I find that this created more problems and “loopholes” that necessary.
Overall I hope they realise that this will not be sustainable and Saudi will have to change the process and allow Umrah visas to be issued on their own.
They truly cannot try to grow their tourism industry and their Umrah and Hajj pilgrims to 30million per year while putting such restrictions especially when the new Millenial travellers are so much more into technology and money-saving tips.
If you have read some of our articles on MuslimTravelGirl under DIY Umrah, you know that the biggest savings are on hotels.
Cheaper Options for Umrah
While we are waiting to see what will happen with the Umrah visas I suggested checking our articles on Umrah and travel tips to help you prepare yourself for your Umrah.
MuslimTravelGirl.com is the go-to website for people looking to plan and experience their own DIY ( Do-it-Yourself) Umrah thus removing the middleman and planning solo.
You can read about DIY Umrah planning on the main DIY page where we share the best DIY Umrah packages from Europe and the US every month saving you up to 40%.
It sounds scary especially when this is not a simple holiday, but trust me, there is a ton of info here and it’s much easier ( and cheaper) than you think.
Especially now with the new Umrah visa fees becoming more permanent it is even more expensive and cheap options are required.
If you are looking to plan your own Umrah for cheaper from anywhere in the world then you might not to check the Umrah section.
Make sure you read first the Ultimate Guide on How to Do a DIY Umrah here.
- The best time to book your Umrah for maximum money-saving here
- For transportation from Makkah to Medina you can find our guide here.
- For a DIY Umrah Package with Rihaala which is also ATOL protected check our post
- For cheap hotels, you can find some of our best options here.
- For the best hotels in Makkah or Medina check out the list here.
- For DIY Umrah packages with flights check out the ones we have made ready for you.
We also have a new project coming up on DIY Umrah and how to save thousands every time you go for Umrah. This is for those who want more in-depth information and travel tips that can help them save extra.
So if you want to find out more about this, make sure you sign up to receive the Umrah Transport Guide as I will email the info there.
Read More
The Ultimate Guide on How to Plan a DIY Umrah
Plan your 5-star Umrah with Rihaala the newest Muslim Travel Agency from £418pp
Amazing Deals for Umrah in Ramadan 2019 on a Budget- Last 10 Nights
5 Smartphone Apps to Help You Make the Most of Your Umrah
Use These 5 Tips to Book Your DIY Umrah and Save Hundreds
My review of the Intercontinental Dar Al Tawhid Makkah
Hyatt Regency Makkah Hotel Review
Conrad Makkah Hotel Review- Great Hotel, Price and Location in Makkah near the Haram
abdul says
salam there
I’m about to go on to pay for the tourist visa but something stopped me to confirm the website, is this genuine website?, because let’s be honest it looks a bit fishy, has anyone confirmed their tourist visa from the above website.
Don’t get me wrong I’m only trying to verify the authenticity of the website.
Muslim Travel Girl says
not sure what site you refer but ours are correct.
Habeeb says
Assalaamu Alaykum.
May Allah reward you abundantly for your effort and time to help others, May you never lack help.
I am a man <45 years of age from Nigeria, I was told by my agent that the visa cannot be issued to me as Ik would need a female companion willing to do Umrah.
Please what do I do, as I've already taken a leave from work to perform Umrah for tg those days
Muslim Travel Girl says
just checked with my agent and indeed this is the case for some countries. You will need a female to go with you. Bizzare but don’t ask why
Shahbaz khan says
As salaam alikum iam from India my mother and me planing to come umrah but my sister in Riyadh I go in Riyadh to meet her possible on umrah visa plz tellme
Muslim Travel Girl says
you can’t on Umrah visa.
Huzaifa says
Salaam, for those wondering, i travelled for Umrah from the UK with my family in November 2019 with the new tourist visa. I was worried that it won’t be accepted for Umrah purposes however at Jeddah Immigration I had no issues at all. They took my fingerprints, checked visa and let me through. No hassle and was complete all in 5 minutes. So whoever is wondering, you can travel for Umrah on the tourist visa with no issues. I have a question regarding Ramadhan 2020. What is the process for visa for Ramadhan? Will there be a separate visa or will the tourist one work fine?
Muslim Travel Girl says
It will work fine for Ramadan too.
Jamila says
Salaam Sister
I am a 38 year old female from the UK and I would like to perform Umrah with my 2 children ( 13 year old girl and 8 year old boy) but I have no mahram to travel with. Under the new visa rules can I travel to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah with my children without a mahram?
Thank you
Muslim Travel Girl says
yes you can
Fahad Saleem says
I booked my Umrah package through an Agent for 25th Feb 2020. I purchased my own travel insurance for my Umrah trip but my Agent called me today and said that there is a new rule that the travel insurance is compulsory for Umrah visa and he would need to charge me extra £40 for it. I told him that I already purchased travel insurance but he said that it needs to be purchased from travel agent and everyone should pay this. Sounds very strange to me. Is there any such new rule coming up regarding the travel insurance? I googled about it but found nothing. Any help will be much appreciated, Jazak’Allah.
Muslim Travel Girl says
Sadly this is a new rule
Yasir Saleem says
Sam happened to me, I booked a package from 11th Jan 2020 and got a call on 1st Jan 2020 that new travel insurance policy is imposed (190 riyal per head), we are three adult and two kids, so enough amount is increased in the package )
Muslim Travel Girl says
Yes now it is compulsory to have the insurance.
Adil says
I want to asked question that I’m living in makka my brother come on umrah with his family, can I pick him up from airport and take them at my place?
Muslim Travel Girl says
if they are on a tourist visa you can yes. If on Umrah visa they should have booked hotels.
Ahmad says
Salam,
I am a 30 years old male from Pakistan. I am going to Dubai on a work trip and was planning to go to Umrah from there. Today I have been told by a couple of agents that Saudi Govt doesn’t give Umrah visa for <40 years old male traveling alone. I have to take a mahram lady with me. This is quite surprising because I thought the mahram requirement is for females only.
Is this a new regulation? I am really confused now and I already made hotel bookings 🙁
Muslim Travel Girl says
this is the first time i hear of it.
Ari says
Salam,
We, a family of 4 people are going to perform DIY Umroh departing from UK on January 2020, and our passport is Indonesia. We’ve bought tickets and booked the hotels. We’ve just sent the papers needed for visa purpose to an agent. We asked the agent for vaccine certificate requirement for our umroh and the agent said it is no longer as mandatory requirement.
Our question is when the immigration checking up the documents in Jeddah airport, will us be asked to show the vaccines certificate by the immigration staff? Or we’ll be asked just to show our passport and visa only?
Jazzakumulloh khairan
Muslim Travel Girl says
I have never been asked to show it.
Salwa Elsekely says
Salam aikum. I am over 45 and alhamidlilah got the visa for umra. I wonder if its possible as a female to do umra alone?
Muslim Travel Girl says
Islamically difference of opinion, the visa rules allow you though
Norra Ahmed says
Assalamualaikum. We are currently living in the UK. My husband has a British passport and mine is a Singapore passport. We are planning to meet up my family in Madinah to do our umrah in sha allah. My question is do we have to book the visa and flight through an agent or can this be done online? My family will arrange for our accommodation. This will be our first trip.
Muslim Travel Girl says
Please read the article on the tourist visa You are from eligible countries
Florentina says
Hi, I have a US passport can me and my daughters got to perform umrah without a Male presence,
Thanks
Muslim Travel Girl says
According to the Umrah visa rules yes. Islamic rules are difference of opinion but its a personal choice.
Sadia says
I m from USA, I just booked hotel without any payment 8 days for $65 from booking.com .and my visa got approved within 10 min Alhumdu Lilaln
Rukeya says
Hi,
Is it still possible to book hotel and flights separately? Is it likely the visa will be declined?
Muslim Travel Girl says
For Umrah you need them together from qualified site. For tourist visa you can book any you want.
M MUSTAFIZUR RAHMAN says
i am a Bangladeshi but presently in Pakistan for a purpose. My wife and children are at Bangladesh. i would like to go to Medina from Pakistan and my family would be in Medina from Bangladesh. I plan to do my Umrah visa from Pakistan whereas my family will do it from Bangladesh. Our agent will be working from Bangladesh. On completion of Umrah, i with my family will fly for Pakistan. My question is:
(1) Will my family ber permitted to fly for Medina without Mahrem (I shall be in Medina on same date from Pakistan to receive them).
(2) My family will fly for Dhaka to Medina without Mahrema and will also have one way ticket only. Jeddah to Islamabad ticket will be done seperately for all four from Pakistan. Will it be permitted?
Muslim Travel Girl says
Please talk to your agent about this.
saiyad says
Salaam, i need to take tourist visa for myself and my partner, what option should i tick individual or group on the visa form, i am confused please help.
Muslim Travel Girl says
You can do either, the group just waits so you pay for both together.
Babar says
Salaams
Myself and my two children are UK national’s. My wife is a Pakistani national with leave to remain in the UK as my spouse.
We are insha allah planning on going to umrah in February. Please can you clarify whether I can apply for a tourism visa for myself and children and apply for a umrah visa for my wife?
I was hoping to provide the tickets for the whole family and a copy of my tourism visa when applying for the wife’s umrah visa.
Jzk
Muslim Travel Girl says
You will need to actually issue Umrah visa for all sadly. This is what an agent told me. call Prince visa to confirm.
Imran S says
Hi, my umrah visa was stamped on 15th Oct 2019, but I came on 18th Oct 2019. I am still in Makkah. By when should I leave Saudi Arabia latest, as my ticket is booked for 18th Nov 2019. Will there be any issues.
Muslim Travel Girl says
On Umrah you only have 15 days to stay in the country. It says 30 but actually it is 15, they will let you go at the airport but you might pay a fine. Not sure
Runa Yunus says
Hey did u pay fine for one month stay
Faiza says
Aoa
I want to do umrah.i live in germany but my pasport is Pakistani.can i do.umra along with my husband and two kids by muself( without agent) .if yes where should i go to apply for umra visa? Am i eligble for touris visa? And how much it will cost?
Muslim Travel Girl says
You will apply for Umrah visa
Imran says
My agent is saying that the hotel is not realising the BRN number it has already been more than a month- are they playing me?
Salam
Muslim Travel Girl says
It might be the case, just ask them to email you the visa and you can book hotel on your own. These BNR have been a problem but it shouldn’t take a month
Faiza says
What is the cost foe umra visa for my 7 month old baby
Muslim Travel Girl says
the same as the adult
Syed says
Salam,
Quick question, Can my wife who’s on a umrah visa leave Saudi Arabia without a Mehram? Also will there be questions for the Mehram who’s also on an umrah visa when he is leaving a few days later.
Thanks
Muslim Travel Girl says
No I don’t think she can. You can ask an agent though if you want.
saiyad says
salam, are we allowed to buy zamzam water from the airport if we are doing our umrah on tourist visa.
Muslim Travel Girl says
I don’t see a problem with this.
Amran Rahman says
Yes you can, I done Umrah on a tourist visa and was allowed to bring back 5 litres for 7.5 Riyals
Muslim Travel Girl says
Thank you
Omer says
Salaam hope you’re well. Thanks for all the information you have put out here.
I’m in the process of booking my own diy umrah. I’m going to get a tourist visa.
The question I have is where do I put on the ihram if I fly from Manchester, uk to jeddah?
Muslim Travel Girl says
You can put it on the plane in the toilet. Not the best but possible many people do. You get an announcement on Saudia and I assume BA that you are arriving close to miqat to change.
Suhail says
Asalam wu alaikum,
I booked a flight from UK to Pakistan through an agent and flying on Saudi Airlines. I am flying from Heathrow and landing in Saudi on 29 Apr 2020 and requested that I have a 24 hr stop in jeddah so I can perform umrah and then proceed to Pakistan on 30 Apr 2020.
Are there any restrictions on getting a visa if I’m only there for 24 hours and do I need to book a hotel as I don’t think I’ll need a hotel.
Can I apply for a visa online?
Jzk khair in advance for any replies.
Muslim Travel Girl says
I can’t see any on a tourist visa
Aad says
Salaam
I have agreed a package with my agent and he is telling me I now need to pay him another £30 per person as apparently there is a new rule where you have to pay for medical insurance. Is this the case?
Muslim Travel Girl says
Salams the insurance is not yet out for the Umrah visa. Before you pay ask him to show you the insurance certificate. Are you issuing a tourist visa or umrah visa? tourist visa included insurance at issuance
Aad says
So its an Umrah Visa, I asked for the certificate and he apologized and said there is no such requirement as of yet. I really wish I had found this website before booking, the agent is entirely unhelpful! You are doing a really great job here, may Allah reward you for all of your help. Ameen.
Muslim Travel Girl says
Thank you so much for your kind words and I am glad we could help. Insha’Allah now you know where to find all the info for your next Umrah!
J says
Salam sister,
I would like to know can i still do UMRAH DIY booking.
I.e. book flights for myself, as well as hotel (through booking.com as an example).
Also book flights myself as well.
I understand VISA has to be obtained through an agent.
British citizens w/o children intending to go
Muslim Travel Girl says
Yes you can, I guess you skipped the top post on Saudi Tourist visa and the Ultimate Guide to DIY Umrah
Ayesha Ayub says
Assalamualaikum sister,
I want my Nikkah to take place in Haram, but my in-laws live in India. They can come to Makkah in the month of December only. My in-laws consists of 3 members, one elderly woman, mother in law and the groom. Can you tell which visa they should apply for? I live in Jeddah and I am iqama holder so I can easily manage to visit Makkah but the only problem is them coming here. And I wanted to know its is possible for Nikkah to take place on Umrah or tourits visa?
Please help me out with this situation, I am really in need of someone who can help me with this.
Muslim Travel Girl says
I have no idea this is best to contact local authorities.
Rabia says
Hi,
We are a family of 5 Muslims travelling on Australian passports. We are going to apply for the tourist visa, a great option now I must say!
Just a quick question, before when we applied for Umrah visa we had to do biometric testing and get a letter of proof we are Muslim? With the tourist visa do we still need to do this?
What documents do we need to take with us to enter into Mecca for Umrah from Medina, i.e. letter from mosque? We all have muslim names on our passports aswell.
Thank you!
PS. your post is so hopeful!! Thank you
Muslim Travel Girl says
I have never had that unless you are a convert like myself. The tourist visa is for anyone. You should be fine.
Anisa zaman says
Salam,
My family and I have booked to go for umrah 26/10/19, with an agent. We have paid £135 for the new visa situation.
Would you know how long the visa will take to get issued?
Thank you
Muslim Travel Girl says
yes about 5 days for Umrah and few hours for tourist.
Zara says
Salam sis,
There has to be a reason surely why there is a tourist visa and an umrah visa.
Before September I know of someone allowed a visa to visit her son but refused to be allow to go for umrah once in Saudi/or limited prior to visit.
Surely, (whatever their reasoning) there is a reason for umrah vs. Tourist visa?
Non-Muslims aren’t allowed entry into the holy sites…. Or Are they now?
Surely that’s the delineating factor?
Also, the single.female for umrah requires clarification in sha Allah.
JazakaAllah khair for any clarification.
Muslim Travel Girl says
please read the post on a tourist visa, the primary reason is tourism but you can do Umrah. Non Muslims are not allowed
Asana Huseina says
Salam,
Please my name is Huseina I want to apply for online umrah visa with 10months son.please how is the procedure.should my son also get the umrah Visa too and will he also have ticket.please explain to me
Muslim Travel Girl says
Depends on your nationality please read the post on tourist visa at the top and also the guide to DIY Umrah
Sher says
Hi
I did notice the evisa from the USA is USD 189.00 on their website. The umrah visa increase that is mentioned in this article . is it for 2019 or 2020?
Muslim Travel Girl says
So the tourist visa is cheaper. Read the article on top of the page
Liver says
Salam
I want to go for Umrah with my wife and 3 kids(1step) and after Umrah can I go to Pakistan alone? And the rest family will back to Uk alone ??
Plz guide me i booked the tickets with agents already
Muslim Travel Girl says
You dont state where you are from. If from the countries with tourist visa yes.
Tanvir Prince says
Me my wife and my son all live in USA. Me and my son have US passport while my wife has Bangladeshi passport. We already purchased the saudia flight for our entire umrah. The ticket is non refundable. All our hotel booking can be cancelled without any penalty. For the travel visa, only me and my son are eligible but my wife is not. I do not mind to apply for umrah visa (although it is expensive). My questions: Am I require to travel in a group of at least 20 (someone says that it is a requirement)? Can my wife (Bangladeshi passport) eligible to apply for travel visa?
What is your advise on this issue?
Muslim Travel Girl says
You can go on your own also your wife under the new rule should be able to go as well and apply for tourist visa as she has US permit.
Shahid says
I have got my visa and ticketa for ummrah, but now goverment has banned ex pakistan leaves, whats the procedure to cancel it, what amount can be refunded, or is there any option to replace it with any one else
Muslim Travel Girl says
you won’t get a refund.
Nadheerah says
Hi I’m from Philippines and my husband is from london we are planning to go Umrah this year. We are separated in travel as he is from london and I’m from Philippines but we want to be together there. Can I apply tourist Visa for Umrah only without accommodation etc?
Muslim Travel Girl says
You cannot apply for tourist visa unless you have a passport from the countries allowed. You will need to apply an Umrah visa
Muslim says
Salam,
Will there be a trolley for luggage like we have at airport to carry suitcases to train ? We will be InshAllah travelling with kids and need to know how to handle 4-5 luggage bags and with this much train will be suitable or only taxi suite us.
Please any suggestion , it will be highly appreciated.
JazakAllah
Muslim Travel Girl says
There should be trolleys but taxi might be more suitable if you can’t manage because from the train to hotel you will need taxi anyways
Muslim says
Salam,
Thank you,
Makkah to Madina taxi 7 seater will cost 450 to 550 SAR I guess and train will cost for 2 adults and three kids around 500 SAR. I think train is better option if we manage to load unload luggage from train…..
I m keep trying to book from there website but whatever I put I get a message I seat available I even choose 1-5 days still every time I get no seat available…any suggestion? Will we be able to buy ticket at station or that will be no available there as well….
Regards,
Muslim Travel Girl says
You can try at the station when you arrive or you can just book a taxi. The train is faster but the issue with booking online is a pain these days.
Najma says
Assalamu alaykum
I am in the uk my husband lives in turkey is it possible for me to travel turkey then get visa etc (in order to get a visa I assume we need a mahram
Muslim Travel Girl says
are you british citizen? You can apply for tourist visa
Najma says
Walaykum assalam sister yes I am British I am just figuring out how me and my husband can go together would I get tourist visa and then go be able to go umrah from turkey with my husband
Thankyou sister
Muslim Travel Girl says
You can get a tourist visa yes.
Portia Hanis says
Asalamualaikum sister,
I read that the tourist visa for women over 25 has been recently relaxed* so they no longer have to have a male companion. Does this mean that women over 25 can now perform umrah alone/without male mahram? I’m hoping to go with my aunty and uncle early 2020.
Muslim Travel Girl says
Yes please read the article on the tourist visa
Ijaz says
Salam sister. Just a note to let you know that I just used the evisa system on line for myself & 10 family members for our upcoming umrah trip. All were approved in a few minutes. The system was really easy to use. Well done to the Saudis for doing this. The Agents are all running for cover in the UK as their businesses will be seriously impacted. I hope its easy for other brothers & sisters and the Saudis dont change the system again inshallah.
Regards
Ijaz,
Ijaz says
PS – the cost was £94 per visa including medical insurance
Shahrukh Islam says
Dear can you provide the link where you apply evisa online.
Muslim Travel Girl says
on top of the post.
Jalal says
Salam, how i can apply via evisa, URL or application?
JZK
Muslim Travel Girl says
please check the top of the article for the Evisa
Mochsin says
Assalamualaikum,
Which one is correct, apply for hotel booking first via Agoda umrah site before issuing the umrah visa, or Issuing the visa first before hotel booking to get the BRN code and give the code to a Travel agent?
Because I visit the Agoda Umrah site from your link and still not live yet. I am afraid that the Umrah visa will get rejected if I don’t book hotel booking yet. Thank you
Muslim Travel Girl says
Are you looking for the Umrah visa? If you are eligible you can get a tourist visa for umrah. Ideally, issue your visa from agent without the BNR codes as they don’t work
Abdullah says
A friend of mine, UK citizen, just had his tourist e visa rejected. He lost £100!
When he contacted the portal to ask why, they said just go to the Saudi Consulate in London and they will tell you why.
Of course, members of the public cannot just turn up at the Consulate, and they never answer the phone.
Any suggestions what I can advise him to do? Any other UK citizens had Saudi tourist e visas rejected?
Muslim Travel Girl says
suggest he goes and check, he might have overstayed before or something else.
Abdullah says
Who would he check with? Members of the public can’t just turn up at the Consulate and they never answer the phone (like most embassies).
Kabir Ahmad says
Assalamu ‘alaikum sister. I’m from the UK and have a question. Tourist visa costs around £120 and you can do it yourself online , it allows Muslim to perform Umrah with it, it’s valid for 1 year with a stay period of 90 days. An Umrah visa is more than £120 and you have to go through an agent and have your hotels and transportation booked. So my question is as a British citizen why would I not simply get a tourist visa and perform umrah instead of a umrah visa? Look forward to hearing your opinion. Jazakillahu Khair
Muslim Travel Girl says
well you answered it, nothing stops you. read my post at the end about the visa
S b patel says
Hi I’m tying to access your page …. The Saudi Tourist Visa Is Here And It Is A Game-Changer
It keeps
Coming up blank with a promo video .
Can you please advise how
To access the post ? I want to go for Umrah in November tickets are booked . Can I go on this new visa with my wife ? We are landing in Jeddah but going Madinah first and only staying in Makkah for 8 days in the the rest will be in Madinah .can I perform Umrah with with this visa ? I’ll be staying with family in Medina and hotel is booked in Makkah . Pls advise jzk
Muslim Travel Girl says
Salams the page is working for me, please try again. Yes you can use the tourist visa for now
Ali says
Salam. I have already paid for a family umrah visa earlier for travel in December. I read the umrah visa has changed. Do you have any idea how much it is for visa?
Muslim Travel Girl says
read the article on the top of this post
Sarfraz Sadiq says
Hi, we are travelling to jeddah for umrah via pegasus airlines, people were recently denied entry for hajj as they were travelling with pegasus, will there be a problem for me going on umrah 25 october 2019?
Also could we go on Umrah with a tourist visa or is that just with an Umrah visa?
Muslim Travel Girl says
I have no knowledge of the pegasus issue sorry i would call the airline. With regards to Umrah on tourist you can, read the post above with more info
Muslim says
Salam,
Is this eVisa available for Canada ?
I don’t see CANADA listed on list?
If a country is there then there is no need to get specific Umrah visa ?
Please confirm as I m DIY and this news is so exciting, can’t believe it’s happening.
Regards,
Muslim Travel Girl says
look again.
Muslim says
Salam,
There are news of e-visa to Saudia Arabia so will we be able to perform 14 days Umrah on e-visa.
Regards,
Muslim Travel Girl says
Yes, there is a post linked on top of this page about the tourist visa
Imran says
Asalamualaikum
Today it has been announced a tourist visa will be available for approx £120 inc insurance, my question is
1. Could one travel on a tourist visa for umrah?
2. If not, then how would this be detected if they travelled to Makkah?
3. If one lands at Madinah airport on a tourist visa, could they visit masjid Nabawi and not visit Makkah?
It takes 7 minutes to obtain a tourist, would be much easier to apply for this than an Umrah visa. Why are they making it more difficult to obtain a Umrah visa than a tourist visa.
Muslim Travel Girl says
Please read the post
QAMAR says
CURRENTLY WHAT IS THE CURRENT PRICE OF VISA FEE WHICH IS BEING CHARGED FOR NEW UMRA PILGRIMS FOR PAKISTANI INDIVIDUAL
Muslim Travel Girl says
ask a Pakistani agent
Mohamed hussain says
Salams
I have found your blog and information very useful. I have taken time off to go Umrah 2-11 November and only found direct flights by SV and hotels in booking.com. The few agents I have contacted sound dubious I think they are just trying to make money at any costs so not going to trust them for this spiritual trip. Can I book any hotel of course within range of the Haramain and my own transport. Will be using your guide (train and uber/karim or local taxi) and still get visa. I have taken this time off for Umrah and made intentions don’t want this experience ruined because of agents trying a fast one. Please advise thank you for your help.
Br Mohammed
Muslim Travel Girl says
You will need to use an agent unless you can issue a tourist visa.
Mohamed hussain says
Thanks Elena I’m from the UK so no DIY is all Go? You just released the article. No need for agents then?
Muslim Travel Girl says
please read the post on the top about the new visa
Hamza Ali says
Assalam o alaikum
Do you know or can refer to any Canadian agent issuing visas only with transportation.
Thank you
Muslim Travel Girl says
check out the tourist visa
Ibrahim says
Can I performed Hajj on tourist visa?
Muslim Travel Girl says
NO!!
Zunaira Azam says
If i apply today can you tell me how much time it takes to get my visa?
Muslim Travel Girl says
it is in the article above 10 days
Zohra says
Salam sister, can you please provide an update on the discount price for Prince travel visa for your readers? I am hope we can have a better deal than the current rate of £250 per person which is very expensive I am afraid. May Allah reward you. Thanks
Muslim Travel Girl says
please read about tourist visa. The discount for Prince visa is £20 so £230pp
Ahmed says
AoA
I am from Jeddah and my family is here on Umrah package, and their tour is for 14 days, do you have any knowledge if they can stay in Saudi for more than their package ? (their visa is valid for 30 days).
Muslim Travel Girl says
No, they recommend not to as they can get blacklisted. The call is yours or call the immigration and ask.
Rashida says
Assalamu-Alaikum – Shukran for all the assistance – May Allah reward you with all that is good 🙂 – I will be travelling for Umrah in December IA. Do you perhaps know when the Agoda Umrah site will be functional? Or can you please suggest an alternative? Do you have any contacts for visa assistance for South Africans?
Muslim Travel Girl says
Sadly visa from South Africa is not very easy unless you know an agent. They have the monopoly on visas and even when I asked knowing they issue to people they said they can’t help the MTG readers!
Sabeeh says
Salams, is there any update of the opening issuance of Umrah Visa? Can I apply now via an agent or the ministry link still closed? Thank you
Muslim Travel Girl says
please read the article above.
FM says
Can single women (under the age of 45yrs) perform Umrah without mahram?
What type of Visa will allow this?
Muslim Travel Girl says
The tourist visa allows you to do Umrah as a female
Adil says
I booked my airline on Saudi Airlines website and also ten nights in Mecca on the pullman zamzam hotel website. Am I at any risk since those sites look hundred percent authentic? Please advise since I am pretty alarmed.
Muslim Travel Girl says
They are authentic sites bt Saudi changed the rules, contact an agent to issue you a visa.
Muslim says
Salam,
Are we good now to book accommodation on our own using Agoda Umrah portal?
Or still it’s transportation , accommodation and visa stamping with agents. I wanted to book at least accommodation on my own as agents charging me high.
Regards,
Muslim.
Muslim Travel Girl says
Yes, you can book on the agoda but book refundable and speak to the agent for your transport and visa. You will need the BNR from the agoda Umrah site!
Muslim says
Agoda.com/Umrah generate BNR after booking ?
JazakAllah
Muslim Travel Girl says
Yes it should do, but book refundable in case there is a glitch. They are still some issues
Abdulla says
For Pakistani Umrah is opened?
Muslim Travel Girl says
Umrah season is open yes
Firdous says
Hi ,
We have booked hotels for our Umrah for end of November but through direct hotel websites . Do we still need to get a BRN for processing the visa?
Muslim Travel Girl says
Speak with an agent to issue you only an Umrah visa.
Chifaa Al Naimi says
Salam Sister,
I recently read in a Saudi article that everyone who wants to go for Hajj or Umrah MUST register and go through an agent with a group. I think the DIY Umrah no longer exist !
Allah knows best !
Muslim Travel Girl says
please read the article about tourist visa
Muhammad says
Salam,
Is there any hope to revert this process back to normal? …. as I have booked my air tickets for 20th november.
Muslim Travel Girl says
No, they won’t be reverting it. You will need to use that process to get your visa.
Nasir uddin says
The prices for umrah visa has gone down from £235 to £215 I was was quoted this by an agent in London about a week ago and today it’s gone down so o hope the prices will change as no one wants to pay £235 for an visa supposed to be free
Muslim Travel Girl says
The visa is NOT free!
AIMAN says
Kindly Inform, Due to the mess and delay in Visas..Can I travel in first week of October? it is possible? How much time is require more in this process?
Muslim Travel Girl says
You will need min 5 to 10 working days. So keep this in mind.
Fatima says
Salamualaekum,
Your blog is so useful thank you. May I ask something. Do you know when the online ministry portal for hotel and transport booking opening date? Do you know the date exactly? And what validity to enter Saudi after issuing umrah visa?
Syukron .
Muslim Travel Girl says
We don’t have a concrete day. Once we do, i will update
Imran attari says
Is it confirmed? cuz i have already booked the ticket for 24th septamber
Muslim Travel Girl says
Yes, I don’t think they will be removed.
Sk says
i do not mean to be rude or show anyone up but there are many agents who are willing to charge £150 a person for visa so if any other agent is asking more they are just being greedy ignoring the fx difference of course. So please call around and ask. I had some quote me £300 per visa it’s terrible what the government and agents are doing. FYI It’s 300 riyals currently and the agents are charging 70+ to make a margin. My question is for 5 – 10min work is the additional 70+ to agent justified? I don’t think so. Also you should search for Saudi e visa as when that is launched and if UK is on the acceptable list then we do not require agents anymore….
Muslim Travel Girl says
Look, it is not as simple as this but I agree the visa is a rip-off but not only on the agents part but the Saudi too. The UK will not be included from the list they showed for the tourist visa and we also don’t know the rules for it. I would wait and see what they are. With regards to pricing of Umrah visas, the agents actually make a small mark-up ( i have asked the same question) but now they have more fees and don’t forget they have other overheads to pay for like office, tax, employees and pay their bills as well. I am not for them but we can’t just brush it all aside it will be a very simplistic approach to something that is not so simple.
Waqas says
Tripshop looks incomplete given how it doesn’t allow to search for transport only. Were you able to book transport only?
For hotel is it must to book through Umrah Agoda instead of normal agoda site. Asking this as booking through Citi bank Agoda portal one can get discount or extra miles from the bank… Will appreciate feedback
Muslim Travel Girl says
Yes they don’t function well yet. You will have to book via the Umrah portal for the BNR to work so sadly you won’t be able to get the miles.
Taher Ali says
Damn it….. We were doing it DIY and have already booked our flights because we got a good deal.
LHR – JED direct on BA for only £477, and after using my Avios points, I actually got them for £426 for the 3 of us. Now that’s is a good price for direct. I do hope this is all sorted soon and that I know we’ll probably now have to go via an agent to book hotels/transfers/visa’s etc……
Muslim Travel Girl says
would say contact prince visa for help on the visa and hopefully avoid the portals
Fahd says
Salaam sister, after reading a lot of comments here and your responses, I reached out to Prince Visas earlier today. They seem to have a very simplistic view of the rules, all I was told was to book my hotel and flight as normal then apply for a visa through them for £250 per person and that will suffice. What surprised me was the additional comment the agent made that the rules could change on a daily basis for the foreseeable future. I’m aiming to do umrah in late November but am getting increasingly confused as how to proceed.
Muslim Travel Girl says
Salams, the rules are changing as well as the price for some services like transport. The reason for this is that it is on-demand and supply.. more agents book the price goes up (they want to make as much as they can). I am confident they can get you the visa and the price for MTG readers is £230! So make sure you get this price. I am not an agent but they do have a way and are established for many years so i do trust their process.
Kamran says
Who did you book the BA tickets with? £477 is a great price
Muslim Travel Girl says
I would assume with BA and in the sale. You can find such prices if you book in advance. You can read our DIY Umrah guide
Erna says
Assalamualaikum, just wanted to ask whether Elaf Bakkah is part of Agoda’s umrah site. I am worried as ive paid in full for my dec umrah..
Muslim Travel Girl says
Speak with your agent, they might be able to help you to issue it. If in the UK speak with prince visa and you get a discount for a visa for £250
Umayr says
Salam,
Could you provide a link for where you get your information on the visa fees etc. I currently have a package booked for 18th to 26th October and the agency has mentioned the fees etc (by simply copy/pasting a section of this arricle) but not given specific details as to how that has been broken down, i.e. The specific charges for transfers, hotels and VAT.
From what I have been told by various people over the last few days there is the £80 visa fee and then a fee of £6/7 for every night that you spend in Mecca/Medina.
Muslim Travel Girl says
yes and then % charges which we are not sure about transport and some VAT of short. I think the total fees come to close of £150 per visa but also the transport booked fluctuates a lot and costs more sometimes overnight.
Nasir says
Salamon alaikom, i am planning to perform Umrah in October the agent is asking me to pay £235 just for Umrah visa or £860 for 7 days package should I wait or go ahead thanks
Muslim Travel Girl says
does the 860 include your visa? From what we have seen they are not removing the fees hence you can look into the best option for you either visa or package.
Iqbal says
Salaam, Has any one actually used the service of Price travel in the month of Sept 2019? Did they assist you with issuing the umrah visa? I’d like to understand how quick the process was and what you went through.
Thanks
Muslim Travel Girl says
Yes, there have been people. Best to call them for up to date timing on issuance
Junaid Mahboob says
Assalamualaikum, iam from India and planning to Umrah in October . Should I wait for some changes as you mentioned or should I go for it ?
Muslim Travel Girl says
I would book if you are going in Oct. But make sure you get your visa first as the processing time from what i know is long.
Ali says
few months back I booked Flights for myself, wife and 4 kids
I also booked hotels in Makkah & Madina using Hotels.com
the only thing i needed was Umrah Visa for all 6 of us. I contacted Travel agents and they asked me to wait until mid September (this week) and now I am not sure whether
1. we must pay the New fee ? its too much
2. since I booked the flights & hotel myself, can we even get the Umrh visa at the new fee
Muslim Travel Girl says
Salams Ali, call Prince visa for the visa, sadly you will have to pay the new fee of £250 pp ( discount if you mention MuslimTravelGirl at the start) but hopefully you can keep the rest of your trip
Uzma says
I have booked an Umrah trip before Ramadhan with an agent as a whole package..the price that i paid the agent included flights hotels and transfers and visa..
We are due to leave October 20th, so what does this mean for me, the agent has not been intouch yet, so will i be expected to pay more?
Muslim Travel Girl says
I am not sure, maybe the agent will contact you. Some people with packages got asked to pay the extra fees. Visas get issued about 2 weeks before travel so there is still time. I would contact the agent and make sure you are aware in advance.
Naeem Shaid says
Usslamalekum sister on Saudi train I like to travel from Jeddah station to Madinah on 26 September but online booking donot allow me to book from Jeddah to Madinah it says no seats available but I allows me to book from mecca to Madinah with that booking would they allow me to enter and travel from Jeddah train station thank you Naeem uk
Muslim Travel Girl says
Salams I am not sure about this. Maybe call them and ask?
Mohammad Iqbal says
I think you can make your train reservation upto 10 days in advance. Thank you.
Alia says
Assalamualaikum,
I have already book one way ticket by my self without travel agent. And now I want to book hotel and transport by using authorized travel agent. Can we choose our hotel based our personal preference? I am afraid we can not choose our preference hotel and the travel agent will insist us to take their choice of the hotel that we don’t want. Please help!
Thanks in advance.
Muslim Travel Girl says
Alia, do you have a mahram, you cannot travel without one. If you book via these sites you pick the hotel and give the code, but make sure they work properly and i wouldn’t book non-refundable?
Alia says
Yes.. I will go with my husband insyaAllah. I just worry that I can not choose the hotel that I like in Makkah. I want to use travel agent But I want to choose my own hotel near haram.
And can we go umrah without entering and stay in Madinah?
Thank you 🙂
Muslim Travel Girl says
Yes you can. If you issue the visa via agent you can choose your hotel but even with a package, you can still tell your agent the hotel you want.
Sarah says
Salam,
How many days are required to do umrah? Because my travel agent said, stay minimum in makkah for 5 nights which is 6 days for the minimum? Is it correct? or we can stay less than that? Thanks
Muslim Travel Girl says
Umrah procedure takes a few hours, you can stay as long as you want, not sure what the agent means. You want to go to Medina or leave mekkah and come back home? Maybe they have minimum stay of 5 nights now with the visa.
Sarah says
May I leave Makkah without stay in Medina? Because I have days off limitation.
Thanks.
Muslim Travel Girl says
Yes, you can.
Ali says
Who is helping/ the contact for visa issuance in Canada. Thank you.
Muslim Travel Girl says
check out the tourist visa you can do it yourself
Khan says
My job visa valid till September 2020, but family visa expire 25 September 2019,
My family is eligible for umrah visa or not. After umrah performance we want to leave for Islamabad.
Muslim Travel Girl says
call you agent and ask-I am not an agent.
Goolam says
This is just a clever way to recoup the SR2000 in another way. The Saudis will collect from everybody. I feel sorry for people going for Umrah this year. May Allah make it easy. Insha’Allah.
amer says
me and my family goin in october
agents wants extra 70 each for visa
also charging us £7 per person per day for other fees?
any idea what that extra is. total increase for us is almost £1900!,
Muslim Travel Girl says
You mean on top of the £250? not sure what is the £7 per person extra
Fuseina says
Salam
Please why is it dat Nigeria and Ghana didn’t open the umrah yet.
Muslim Travel Girl says
they should have they umrah is open everywhere, i have no idea.
Zahir Gaffoor says
This is Zahir Gaffoor from South Africa. Want to go for umra with my during Ramadaan 2020. Hotels in Makkah and madina are expensive during this time . should I make arrangements to book now or wait for the situation to become clearer. Could u please advise me on hotels in Makkah and madina ( close to ladies entrance) . Shukran
Muslim Travel Girl says
Make sure you can issue visa only from South Africa, most likely you will need an agent package as SA are known to be hard to give only visas.
Ijaz says
Salam, I have booked my flights and accommodation for Umerah about 6months ago. There are a total of 11 people travelling together and I made my selections as I wanted my mother to have views of the kaaba etc . Our travel date is 17 Oct 2019 and I have recently started the process of Visa Application and have hit the new Visa Rule issue. I have contacted many Agents (reputable ones) who have basically told me that I would need to pay £250/person and they would manage the visa. In going into detail, it has become apparent that the way they will do this is to make an accommodation booking on the new portal in a far away/cheap hotel and then obtain the BRN from the Portal that will be used to obtain the official Visa and we are free to use our original hotel booking. It seems many people are trapped this way. Whilst I applaud the efforts of the agencies to find a way through this, it occurs to me that we are all trying to carry out our blessed pilgrimage by lying and cheating. Surely there is a better way ????
Muslim Travel Girl says
I agree with you, sadly it seems at the moment that there is not other way. 🙁 Not our fault nor the agents!
Fareed says
Ijaz, I am in the same boat as yourself. I would suggest wait till the end of this month before making any visa payment. Rumours are that the official visa fees might come down in the coming week.
May Allah accept our efforts and make it easy for everyone going, ameen.
Samia says
When i visit the Agoda Umrah website, the following message pops up, so looks like they are not ready yet either. I had hotels booked for December via booking.com and we had our days planned out – we were going to save over a $1,000 doing it ourselves vs going through an agent and now it looks like we’re back to square one!
“The Agoda – Maqam portal connection is not live yet. You can use this website to make normal accommodation only bookings for customers who already have a visa or are GCC nationals. The portal is not ready to return BRNIDs from Maqam. Once that changes this message will reflect accordingly.
If you do make a booking, please ensure to review the cancellation policy prior to confirming the reservation as we are unable to help in case a a non-refundable booking is made.”
Muslim Travel Girl says
they are not working but contact your local agent and im sure they can help issuing your visa and not losing your money.
Zubair says
AoA. I am from Canada but would like to go to Umra from Pakistan. Can i book the air travel and hotel my self using the links mentioned in the article or do I have to go through the agent. Thanks
Muslim Travel Girl says
you have to go through agent, please read the post again. you need to give your canadian agent the details
Aveem Alvi says
I just called Prince visa on 18th September 2019 and they said the price for 2 visas (for me and my wife) is £500 in cash or £600 with card (inclusive of vat)
When I asked about a discount for Muslim travel girl followers they said there is none..
Muslim Travel Girl says
Salams, Prince visa has informed me thay are offering the visa for £250 for MTG card or no, you have to make sure you mention it at the beginning. thank you for letting me know so I re-confirmed with them.
UKhorizon says
Completely outrageous.
If I booked on reward flight on Saudia.com to Jeddah for Umrah would this no longer be valid?
Hotels only give you benefits if you book direct with them so now they are disadvantaging everyone by making us book at Agoda.
They have moved so far away from religion it is scandalous that this is no more than a money making machine now.
When did Islam become a religion of the rich only?
Muslim Travel Girl says
If you are in the UK contact prince visa to see your options
suhridkhan says
I agree very much with you.
The Saudi regime is just trying to cash in with peoples sentiment.
In 2019 it’s supposed to be easier, but they are going in the opposite direction.
AHMED says
Salaam sister just one clarification needed as according to the new rules can we book our flights independently from any site or even the flights also have to be booked through the approved sites with the hotel plus transport you mentioned in your article.
Thanks
Muslim Travel Girl says
Salams Ahmed, you can book flights from any site. Only hotels and transport are required
Mamu says
Salaam,
Is it possible to get a multi entry umrah visa?
Or as someone has already mentioned, obtain a tourist visa and perform umrah?
thanks
Muslim Travel Girl says
at the moment it is not possible, we will see with the new tourist visa however even now, the tourist and family visas didn’t alow Umrah
Sana says
Asslm o alikim
Plz will you tell me why ummarh viza is not open yet for pakistan lahore!?
Muslim Travel Girl says
it should be
MOHAMMAD IQBAL says
I am 70 yrs old and I live in the US. I already have confirmed airline booking and hotel reservation that are non refundable. Does it mean I have lost everything? Can you guide me how to proceed. May Allah Bless you for your good deeds. Aa’meen.
Muslim Travel Girl says
Salams please call Randevouz travel Hajj Umrah and ask them what can be done.
Ahsan Hussain says
Salaam, I am an Indian Citizen working in Saudi Arabia, I wish to bring my brother and his family for Umrah, Since, i am residing in Dammam, can the port of Entry and Exit be Dammam airport.
Wassalaam
Muslim Travel Girl says
you need to contact an agent in India to issue this.
Faisal says
Slms I’ve travelled on e-Visa (tourist) and cost £60 + £20 travel insurance with visiting Makkah and Madinah – booked it through booking.com – new Visa systems open on 27/09/19 which is advertised on there websites. Don’t worry agents will rip you off and scaremongering
Muslim Travel Girl says
how did you issue a visa that is not yet available?
Aziz says
can you please share detail how you applied for evisa. I am planning to travel in Dec for Umrah. Agents are abusing the system. Asking nearly £270 for visa
Muslim Travel Girl says
This is normal new price, Prince visa do it for £250 if you mention MuslimTravelGirl
gulzaaar says
please help
i booked filghts for 6 on skyscanner
and hotels on stayforlong
how do i get visa if i didnt go through an approaved agency
Muslim Travel Girl says
contact prince visa
Sami says
AOA
please update about ummrah host visa
Muslim Travel Girl says
it is updated, please read the article
Amran says
Hello Sister need advice, I booked my diy umrah trip 2 weeks ago and since reading your post really worried as done tickets through Lufthansa got good price and it was non refundable regret it now and booked hotels through booking.com again non refundable not sure where I stand as you say Saudi only issue visa if you used one of the 3 companies they approve. Please can you advise
Muslim Travel Girl says
If you are in the UK contact Prince visa im sure they can help and guide you
Mohammed says
Hi, as many people are in the same situation (myself included) are you able to get some general info from Prince Visa on this issue and link it to this article?
Muslim Travel Girl says
Salams, the info is above and as general as we can publish at the moment. If you have a specific question please call them.
Gulzaar says
Salams
Ive booked my umrah flights with skyscanner for the 17th Oct with budgetair,co.uk
since the new changes have happend to to the visa requirements which is cumpulsory to book flights hotel and transport via an authorised agent. What is my fate in terms of the hotels and lflight booking I have done?
have I lost out my £4000 for the flights and hotel.. This is totally unfair
someone please help and let me know what i can do ?
Muslim Travel Girl says
PLease contact prince visa asap and they will guide you how to make sure you dont lose your cash to the best possible way
Zara says
Salam sister, you certainly doing your best to help. I too have booked diy for 4 ( husband & I, my 4 year old son and 1 year old). This is truly chocking £250 per person!!!! I think the whole Muslim ummah should boycott the Saudi and demand a fairer system without recourse to agent like Prince travel which quote me £250 while the visa fee is only £80 (yes I read the article there is other taxes etc… but … really).
This a trip that is undertaken for the sake of Allah and nothing they should appreciate that.
Common sense will put a date from which the new rules will come into effect so past booking are still valid and not held hostage of the news rule.
Surely if someone is paying now a fee for a visa why do we still need to be held hostage by agents as if we were unable to take care of the process ourselves? Allah is aware of everything they are doing which is not kind at all and truly sad to be part of the ummah. We should voice our dismay. I won’t even bother using Prince travel for visa as they are unfair in their price. Sorry but you should stand for us!
Muslim Travel Girl says
I do agree with you but sadly this is the price, it is not only Prince visa it is other agents too, demand and supply and with the new system it is much more expensive, plus if Saudi implement 10% VAT add some extra too.
Ali says
A salaam o Alikum
I am from Pakistan and today is 15 Sept 2019,
Can you please tell me that visa is open for umrah and visa policy finalized?
Muslim Travel Girl says
Please read the article above
Shuayb says
Salam’s , I’m planning to book a flight from London to India with stopping in Abu Dhabi but the return leg I’ll be flying to jeddah to perform Umrah then back London . ( we are uk residents )
Can you advise me before I book my ticket on what I should do ?
I am so confused about the visa system . I’ll be staying in India for 2 months so Umrah will be towards the end of November
Jzk
Muslim Travel Girl says
You need to issue via UK agent and book as on the article. As it is done online it doesn’t matter if you are in India. Best call Prince visa for more info on the process when it comes to booking from abroad
Nasrin says
As Salaam Alai Kum, I would really appreciate ur kind advice. We want to go for Umrah from in October 2019 for 6 days. Is it possible to travel individually. We are 3 people. As my husband has to go back to work, he can’t give 15 days. our agent told us we must go in group. We need ur help.
Muslim Travel Girl says
I am not sure where you live, but you can go as a family provided you book your hotels and transport as per the article
Ali says
I believe it’s the ‘Mahram’ issue. I don’t think women are allowed to travel in/out without a ‘Mahram’.
Muslim Travel Girl says
yes if you are female you cannot go and leave alone.
Zara says
Salam sister, I have just read your article regarding the New Umrah rules for 19/20. I have booked my family plane ticket many months ago and also all hotels accommodations on non refundable basis. Can you please advice on whether our bookings will valid for visa application under new restrictions on booking via Umrah.me? Surely these news site were not available to allow people to make informed decision. Also with the new fee of £80 per person how much on top will the agent be charging? Many thanks for all your great articles and may Allah reward you. Amine
Muslim Travel Girl says
Salams, please call prince visa to help out on the flights and accommodation so you don’t lose money. The price per visa is £280 per person at the moment.
Sameena says
Ummrah visa are open???
Muslim Travel Girl says
yes, please read above article is updated
Imran jarral says
Hi. Hope you will be fine. Here is some confusion in pakistan. My agent told me that you can’t get umrah visa alone. You must be travel with 30 people group….. Is it true?
And one thing more that I reserved my tickets from turkish air line. Because I have plan a trip. I got turkish visa now I want to apply umrah visa with turkey tour. I reserved my ticket pakistan to turkey on 3rd October to 9 October and then jeddah to Pakistan 9 October to 18 October…. And booked a non refundable ticket. So any suggestion for me plz
Muslim Travel Girl says
You don’t need 30 people group, but you cannot go with a Turkish group unless you have a residence there. Read the article on where you have to book your hotels and transport.
Muslim Travel Girl says
Umrah visa is now open, please read above.
fatimabegum says
aslkm
i would like to know the visa fees for umrah performing for the first time as per the new rules decreed by the ministry of hajj and umrah ..
Muslim Travel Girl says
There is no discount for first time Umrah any more. You will pay the Umrah visa fee as everyone else. Read above for the current Umrah visa price.
Sameera fathima says
Asalamu alaikum
We have paid our agency for Umrah on 26 September 2019 but now they are asking for PAN card. Please clarify whether is it true!
Muslim Travel Girl says
No idea what PAN is, can you clarify with them again? Never heard of it
LMO says
Sister, please advise if process is open as I’ve seen people say on trip adviser it is or if 15th Sep is the real date.
Muslim Travel Girl says
Umrah season for 2019/2020 is open
Samina says
Can we go for umrah of 20 September?
Muslim Travel Girl says
You can, but please read the post as the visa takes a little longer. call you agent
Khan says
When is d Umrah visa going to issue from India this year…from new hijri year…pls help me out
Muslim Travel Girl says
Umrah visa is now open
Faheem says
I have perform Umrah on 28 October 2017 with my mother and father
Now I want to go second Umrah with my wife and my mother can extra fees 2000sar have to pay or not.
How many months duration to visit second Umrah
Muslim Travel Girl says
No fee anymore but the Umrah visa price has increased read the post above.
Fareed says
BREAKING: The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman has issued a Royal Decree cancelling the 2000 SR Repeat Umrah Fees with immediate effect
Faizan says
I came to uhmra 3 years ago but 2000sar show in the web
Muslim Travel Girl says
they will announce the rules around the 15th of Sept
Kashif says
Still nothing
Muslim Travel Girl says
Umrah is open, please read the article
Sam says
When regular visa open for pakitan? Can u please tell me confirm date? I already missed my 5sep flight now i need confirm news . Please as soon as possible
Muslim Travel Girl says
It is open, read the post
Sam says
But my my agent tell me regular visa are not open only v.i.p visa.. are they charge one visa fees 800SR. Is it ture? Please confirm me visa fees
Muslim Travel Girl says
there is only standard visa, the fee is 800SAR for visa and other fees but depending on agents it can be more
Muhammad Arif says
Assalamualikum Sister, I have received the below response from Ministry of Haj & Umrah, i am quoting below for your comment.
“The one-time visa fee is SR 2000 and the Kingdom will bear this fee for the first time for Hajj or Umrah after that the pilgrim will bear the fee for each time.
Regards,
MOHU “
Muslim Travel Girl says
this is most likely the new rule but we are waiting confirmation around 15th Sept
Zakeer says
Hello i would to know when will i be able to perform umrah again , without paying the umrah fee.
As i did in the year 2017 november.
Hijr calender 1439
Can someone reply to me please As i realy want to go the year .2019 without paying 2000sr.
Muslim Travel Girl says
you will probably have to pay, new rules around 15th of Sept
fauzzy says
As per the article the visa was suppose to open on 16 th august but till now its not yet open i have booked the tickets for 8th september will the visa open by than or should i cancel the tkt
Muslim Travel Girl says
new rules come in effect around 15th of Sept. If you have read some of our posts we never recommend travelling for umrah in the first month of opening as there are always delays and visa changes.
Fuzail ahmed says
Assalamualikum sir my family travel for ummrah in 38/04/18 hijri can we travel in 1441 hijri or we have to wait for month.
Amad AHMED says
Salam sister is there any update regarding the new umrah policy that one can’t anymore book a Diy umrah for himself and won’t be able to just get a visa all the accommodation and transportation has to be booked via an agent to be able to get a umrah visa will appreciate your reply Wasalaam
Muslim Travel Girl says
We still have no information, it is conflicted so no confirmation until they issue the ruling.
Sarah. A says
I thank Allah s.w.t so much for Granting me Hajj and Umrah way before this MESS and Confusion !!! The Saudis are really lost and they don’t know what to do or what to say. They are sucking the blood of Muslims with all these unnecessary fees and taxes trying hard to collect money no matter what.
To Allah we present our complaint !
Muhammad says
Aoa when is umrah visa opening after hajj 2019?
JazakAllah
Muslim Travel Girl says
Around first / second week of Sept.
Muhammad says
Can u please update here when visas finally opened for everyone
JazakAllah
Shergeel says
Aoa sister just want to know when is umrah visa going to open after hajj 2019
JazakAllah
Muslim Travel Girl says
Around first / second week of Sept.
Reizal says
Hi,
Do you have any further information with regards to the new e-visa and applying for it online?
Based on the article below it seems like anyone can apply for the e-visa themselves without going through a travel agent.
https://gulfbusiness.com/saudi-issue-e-visas-umrah-pilgrims/
Would be great to have further clarification or confirmation with regards to this matter.
Also, if I am planning to go in December, should I only start applying for the visa 2 weeks before so as to comply with the visa validity?
Thank you.
Muslim Travel Girl says
Nothing is confirmed yet, it will be soon inshaAllah
Uzair says
I went to umrah in May 2017 in 1438 hijri now I want to go to umrah in September 2019 in muharram 1441 hijri will isss 2000 riyal is valid for now or not
Muslim Travel Girl says
Insha’Allah we will find very soon if they rules remain the same of change.
Tahira says
With the recent announcement about rule for females can travel without gardian/mahram….
Now only females can come for umrah and hajj…
Please guide w.r.t to new law for females
Muslim Travel Girl says
I am not aware of this rule. So once I have the information I will make sure to update
Imran khalid says
Sir/Medm
I am working in Saudi arbia i want to bring my mother for umrah on umrah visa, Now i want to know can i bring my mother with me i am now in Yanbu. I want to is it allowed. because before only allowed city Makkah ,Madinah and Jeddah.
Muslim Travel Girl says
On Umrah visa only the above cities, on family visa she can.
Ghulam Muhammad Butt says
Dear one
I am from Pakistan. I performed Umrah in Rajab1439 hijri ….. now I am planning to go for umrah in Ramzan of 1441 hijri. Gap of complete two hijri year. Should I pay extra2000 SR.
Faisal lakdawala says
Assalam i parform umrah in hijri 1438 ramjan and i will go umrah in hijri 1441 muharram so i paying 2000sar ?? Pls reply sir
Sheraz says
Hi
I m from Pakistan. My mother with me in Bahrain on visiting visa… can she get umra visa and travel with me in October from Bahrain to KSA ……
Muslim Travel Girl says
She will need to issue her visa from Pakistan. If you find an agent to do this should not be a problem.
Ruksana Khan says
I’m an Indian can a lady without mehram go for umrah .are there any facility of four to five people group plz answer me Jazakallahu khair
Muslim Travel Girl says
Lady without mahram cannot go unless older than 45 and with a group. You will need to look for an Umrah group with an agent from India for ladies.
Mohammed Sadiq says
Assalamu’Alaikum .
Sister I am from India and need your help to identify the travel agents to get E-Visa for Umrah .
By Allah’s Grace, Myself and my wife performed Haj on 2018. Now we are e planning for umrah in Jan 2020, Insha Allah . Could you give some guidance on the Flights & Hotel bookings from India . Also do we have to pay 2000 SAR as means of Repeater .
Muslim Travel Girl says
We will know the new visa rule soon once the Umrah season opens. With regards to flights and hotels, please look under DIY umrah and you will see the hotel recommendations and flight options / sites to book.
Amir says
Assalam o Alaikum, I m still confused after watching above article plz just tell me when will we go to umrah without tax, we went on umrah in Rjb 10,1438 Nd returned in Shawwal 6 ,1438, plz tell when we can go to umrah without tax? Can we go in Mohrrm 1441?
Muslim Travel Girl says
We don’t know if the rules will change now, so we will have to wait and see when they open the new Umrah season.
sajda says
AOA
i am from Pakistan ..i want to ask about umra visa …when will it open in Pakistan
Muslim Travel Girl says
same for every country, first of Muharram
usman akram says
AoA ,
today i have checked for the additional visa fee after three year from Ministry of Hajj Saudi Arab. And as per them only first visit visa will be free. Following is the reply from them. “The one-time visa fee is SR 2000 and the Kingdom will bear this fee for the first time for Hajj or Umrah after that the pilgrim will bear the fee for each time. “
Muslim Travel Girl says
We are waiting for an announcement however i am not surprised and I was expecting they will remove the free visa rule.
ASRAF ANSARI says
I have applied for Umrah Visa but I could not travel due to some issue, I want to apply for another Umrah Visa after Hajj, Do I still need to pay 2000 SAR fine for applying for a new visa?
As per your blog if you enter into Saudi and perform umrah you are requested to pay 2000 SAR fine if you wish to apply for the new visa, please clarify.
Muslim Travel Girl says
you will have to pay the fee yes. Your visa was issued and it is a personal reason why you didn’t go.
ASRAF ANSARI says
I checked the travel agent, he is saying if you enter into Saudi with the issued visa then you are required to pay the fine in case if you want to perform Umrah again since you did not travel after expiry of the visa a new umrah visa can be requested without paying any fines.
I am confused.
Muslim Travel Girl says
From my understanding, if you have been issued a visa you have to pay. If your agent said otherwise they are the expert so I would trust them. Or give Prince visa a call and check with them as well.
M.Nufel says
Assalamu alaikum. Im from Sri Lanka, working here Saudi Arabia. I won’t to take my wife and son for umra. How i can apply
Muslim Travel Girl says
speak to an agent in Saudi about this.
Khaquan says
In perform umrah in 2018 and now in 2019 also want to go how much fee i have to pay from pakistan
amreen shiliwala says
Assalamualaikum
I want to do umrah .can I do umrah only with my mother?
Or is male companion compulsory
Plz reply to my query
Muslim Travel Girl says
You must have a mahram to do Umrah.
Sajid says
Assalam Alaikum,
Iam going for umrah next week with my friends. So the agent asked my mother passport also for visa along with me. And she also got visa but she is not coming to umrah. What if she visits umrah next year does she have to pay extra amount for visa.
Muslim Travel Girl says
She will pay for the Umrah visa and the extra fee next year yes.
Nawaz Dubai says
Assalam Alaikum,
I m in Dubai, Me and my wife would like perform umrah and would like to visit some relatives in Saudi Arabia in different cities.
Q: 1 Can I visit some other cities after performing Umrah?
Q. 2 what is the visa cost and how many days I can stay in Saudi Arabia?.
Muslim Travel Girl says
You cannot visit other cities on Umrah visa. The cost for the Umrah is above you just have to change it to AED. There are many agents in the UAE who can issue you the visa.
Sana says
Aslm
Are you sure it’s over 30 as I heard 45.
Thanks.
Muslim Travel Girl says
Yes, it is 45 and with a group!
Hira says
Me and my family went on 22 march2017 that is 1438 rabius sani.our two years are complete according to islqmic year as well as normal calendar..but we checked about 2000sar.they are applicable on us if we go this ramadan.why??
Muslim Travel Girl says
If they say they are applicable then they are. It is from a Hijri year to a Hijri year, so it will start from the new Muharram inshaAllah that you won’t have to pay (unless for the new season they change the rules!)
Hafsa Begum says
Salam,i went for umrah febuary 2018.when can i go next without paying 2000r fee?
I live in uk.can you give me exact month and year please.i dont understand hijri month.
Zara says
Can a women under 45 go for hajj with her sister and brother in law?
Muslim Travel Girl says
He is not your mahram so I am not sure, you better call an agent and ask.
Muslim Travel Girl says
You will be better to ask an agent from Oman.
Muslim Travel Girl says
please read the above article. it answers the question.
Muslim Travel Girl says
Please read above a whole section on Umrah visa for children. It says there the fee!
Muslim Travel Girl says
Salams please read the article above. You will need to leave 2 Hijri years between. So for example, if you have been for umrah in Hijri 1440 you will need to go in Hijri 1443. If you are not sure of the Hijri years please visit the link in the post.
Muslim Travel Girl says
According to the new rules because you have been before you will pay 2000SAR extra
Muslim Travel Girl says
Visas should open on 10th of Sept
Ali Raza says
Is it confirmed? cuz i have already booked the ticket for 18th
Muslim Travel Girl says
we will know soon. There has been a delay from Saudi
Khalid Tagoranao Mohammad says
Hi,
Is there an update on the opening of issuance of Umrah visa?
Thanks
Muslim Travel Girl says
It is now open