UK Traveller’s Guide to 2026 Umrah Visa Updates and Restrictions

Planning Umrah has always been a spiritually uplifting journey for UK Muslims, and as we move towards 2026, travellers are searching for clear guidance on new visa rules, Saudi entry changes, and what to expect during the pilgrimage season.

Saudi Arabia continues improving its pilgrimage services, but with these improvements come policy changes that UK travellers must understand. Below, you’ll find everything you need to prepare confidently—from visa requirements and restrictions to travel tips, accommodation choices, and expert guidance from Makkah Tour.

Understanding the 2026 Umrah Visa Updates for UK Pilgrims

Saudi Arabia has introduced several updates to make Umrah arrangements more manageable and accessible, but some rules differ from previous years. UK travellers will benefit from reviewing the latest guidelines before booking flights or confirming accommodation.

Key Changes in 2026 Umrah Visa Policy

• Longer validity for Umrah visas to support flexible travel planning.
• Improved digital application system, reducing processing delays.
• Stricter identity verification for enhanced security.
• Updated rules on travel insurance, which now form part of the visa requirement.
• Season-based restrictions to manage peak travel flow.

These updates aim to streamline the travel experience while ensuring the safety and comfort of pilgrims. As these policies evolve, UK travellers should rely on official sources and specialist Umrah operators such as Makkah Tour for accurate guidance.

Eligibility Requirements for UK Umrah Travellers in 2026

Although Umrah is open to Muslims worldwide, the Kingdom applies eligibility criteria to protect travellers and maintain smooth entry procedures.

Basic Requirements for UK Applicants

• Passport valid for at least 6 months
• Biometric verification completed through authorised centres.
• Recent passport-sized photographs that meet Saudi guidelines.
• Confirmed accommodation in Makkah and Madinah.
• Return flight booking aligned with visa validity.
• Mandatory travel insurance, with coverage approved by Saudi authorities.

Makkah Tour assists travellers with each step, ensuring documents meet official standards and applications are correctly submitted.

Updated Visa Types for Umrah Pilgrims (2026)

1. Umrah Visa

Designed specifically for religious travellers performing Umrah.

• Validity: Up to 90 days
• Best for: Pilgrims focused purely on Umrah rituals

2. Saudi Tourist Visa

A convenient option for travellers who want to combine pilgrimage with exploration.

• Validity: 1 year (multiple entries)
• Maximum stay: Up to 90 days in total during the validity period.
• Benefits: Perform Umrah + visit Saudi heritage, culture, and cities

3. Transit Visa

Ideal for travellers with a short layover who still want to perform Umrah.

• Stay Duration: Short-term stay
• Perfect for: Quick spiritual fulfilment during transit

4. Online e-Visa System for UK Travellers

The Saudi e-Visa portal allows a 100% digital application, eliminating embassy visits.
Most UK applicants receive their visa approval within a few days.

2026 Umrah Visa Fees for UK Pilgrims

Actual prices may vary depending on season, agents, and demand. Below is the average cost:

• Standard Umrah Visa: £80 – £100
• Tourist Visa: £150 – £200
• Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW): £30 – £50

Before booking, always confirm updated pricing as fees can change based on Saudi policy revisions and peak-season demand.

Restrictions UK Travellers Should Be Aware of in 2026

Saudi Arabia enforces certain restrictions during peak periods. Understanding these can help you avoid delays or cancelled bookings.

Seasonal Travel Restrictions

Travellers may encounter limited entry slots during Ramadan and school holidays. High demand results in early closures for Umrah visa submissions.

Age-Related Requirements

Younger travellers must follow specific guidance:

• Children may require guardian approval documents.
• Elderly pilgrims may need additional medical clearance.

Health and Vaccination Rules

Vaccination requirements may vary based on global health conditions. Usually, UK pilgrims must show:

• Meningitis ACWY vaccination
• Seasonal flu vaccine

Checking these rules before booking ensures your journey remains uninterrupted.

New Digital Systems for Umrah Visa Processing

Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation continues into 2026, offering a faster and more transparent process.

What UK Travellers Can Expect

• Unified online application portal for Umrah visas.
• Real-time application tracking, reducing uncertainty.
• Automated approval notifications delivered directly by email.
• Integration with travel agents, allowing providers like Makkah Tour to process applications more efficiently.

This digital shift supports a smoother experience, especially for first-time UK travellers who want clarity and structured guidance.

How These Updates Affect Umrah Packages for UK Travellers

Many UK Muslims prefer booking all-inclusive Umrah packages 2026 because they simplify planning. With the 2026 updates, structured packages become even more helpful.

Why Choose an Umrah Package in 2026?

• Packages adapt to new Saudi visa rules and seasonal restrictions.
• Professional agents handle documentation, flights, and hotels.
• Travellers receive guidance for each stage of the journey.
• Costs remain predictable and transparent, even when policies change.

Makkah Tour offers premium, economy, and family-friendly Umrah packages that suit the needs of UK residents. With expert support, the latest visa updates are managed on your behalf, so you focus fully on spiritual preparation.

Best Time for UK Pilgrims to Travel for Umrah in 2026

With enhanced regulations and growing demand, choosing the right travel period matters.

Preferred Months

Many UK families travel during:

• February–March, due to mild weather
• October–November, for smoother crowd flow

Avoiding peak Ramadan days ensures more flexibility and lower costs. However, for travellers determined to perform Umrah during Ramadan, early planning is essential.

Travel Tips for UK Pilgrims Preparing for Umrah

The journey becomes more peaceful when you prepare early. These tips help UK travellers meet 2026 regulations with confidence.

Smart Travel Advice

• Apply for your Umrah visa at least 4–8 weeks before departure.
• Book an Umrah package with a reputable UK operator like Makkah Tour.
• Keep digital and printed copies of all documents, including insurance.
• Double-check vaccination deadlines.
• Review airline baggage policies to avoid excess charges.

Small steps can prevent last-minute stress and ensure a spiritually fulfilling experience.

How Makkah Tour Supports UK Travellers for the 2026 Umrah Season

As a trusted UK-based Umrah operator, Makkah Tour provides comprehensive support tailored to British Muslims. With years of expertise and thousands of satisfied pilgrims, our team simplifies every stage of your pilgrimage—from visa application to accommodation, flights, and guided assistance.

Why UK Travellers Choose Makkah Tour

• Compliance with the latest Saudi visa updates
• Packages designed specifically for UK pilgrims
• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
• Dedicated support before, during, and after your journey
• Quality hotels close to Haram in Makkah and Madinah

Whether you’re planning a solo pilgrimage or travelling with family, our specialists ensure a safe, comfortable, and spiritually meaningful Umrah.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the 2026 Umrah visa updates and restrictions is essential for UK travellers preparing for this sacred journey. The new guidelines aim to improve safety, streamline applications, and enhance the experience for millions of pilgrims. With the right preparation and the support of a trusted UK provider like Makkah Tour, your Umrah can be both fulfilling and stress-free.

Whenever you’re ready to book an Umrah package or learn more about the latest travel requirements, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

FAQs

When is the last date to enter Saudi Arabia for Umrah in 2026?”

For the 2026 season, international pilgrims can usually enter for Umrah until around 3 April 2026 (15 Shawwal). After that, visas stop being accepted as Saudi Arabia prepares for Hajj. All Umrah visitors must leave the country by 18 April 2026 (1 Dhul Qadah) to allow enough time for Hajj arrangements, which begin towards the end of May.

What is the latest update on the Saudi Umrah visa?
Saudi Arabia has shortened the Umrah visa’s entry validity. Instead of being valid for three months, it is now valid for only one month from the date it is issued. However, once a pilgrim enters Saudi Arabia, they can still stay for up to three months, just like before.

Do UK BRP holders need a visa for Saudi Arabia?
Yes. Anyone travelling from the UK to Saudi Arabia must have a visa, no matter the purpose of their visit. UK passport holders can apply online for the Saudi tourist eVisa, but a visa application is still required before travelling.