Umrah rules for UAE residents have been updated for 2025 to make the pilgrimage experience smoother and more accessible. New visa procedures, hotel requirements, health regulations, and road travel rules are now in place. UAE Muslims planning to visit Saudi Arabia must follow these guidelines to ensure a convenient and spiritually fulfilling journey.
Updated Visa Umrah Rules for UAE Residents
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has issued several key policy changes to improve service quality and pilgrimage access under Vision 2030.
Shortened Umrah Visa Validity
The Umrah entry visa validity has been revised:
- Validity reduced from three months to one month from issuance date
- Pilgrims can still stay in Saudi Arabia for up to three months after arrival
This means the departure must be planned within 30 days of receiving the visa.
All Visa Types Eligible for Umrah
A major relaxation in Umrah rules for UAE residents allows Muslims holding any visa category to perform Umrah. Eligible visa types include:
- Tourist visa
- Family and personal visit visa
- Transit visa
- Work visa
- GCC resident eVisa
Travelers flying through Saudi Airlines or Flynas may also use a transit visa to perform Umrah.
Booking Umrah Services Through the Nusuk Platform
Official Digital Portal for Pilgrims
The Nusuk Umrah platform (umrah.nusuk.sa) enables UAE residents to:
- Apply for an Umrah visa online
- Book hotels and transport
- Select travel packages
- Make secure payments
This system eliminates the need for travel agency intermediaries and ensures verified arrangements.
Hotel Booking Requirement
New rules include mandatory accommodation booking prior to visa approval. Pilgrims must:
- Book hotels through licensed service providers
- Submit the contract electronically via Nusuk Masar
- Ensure lodging is approved by the Ministry of Tourism
This protects pilgrims’ rights and prevents accommodation fraud.
Health and Vaccination Rules for Umrah Pilgrims
Saudi Arabia has updated its health requirements to maintain public safety during pilgrimage seasons.
Meningitis Vaccination
All Umrah travelers must take the meningitis vaccine:
- Minimum 10 days before departure
- Valid for 3 to 5 years depending on vaccine type
The vaccination certificate must clearly state the vaccine name, type, date, and official verification.
Seasonal Influenza Vaccine
Individuals aged six months or older must also receive the seasonal flu vaccine:
- Administered within 1 year
- At least 10 days before traveling
Vaccines can be taken at UAE government health centers, hospitals, and certified private clinics. Travelers should schedule a pre-travel consultation at least one month ahead for timely compliance.
Road Travel Umrah Rules for UAE Residents
Many residents of the UAE prefer traveling to Saudi Arabia by car or bus due to convenience and affordability.
Approved Land Entry Ports
Saudi Arabia permits Umrah entry only through authorized border points:
- Ar Ruqi
- Al Khafaji
- King Fahd Causeway
- Salwa
- Al Batha
- Empty Quarter
- Al Haditha
- Al Durrah
- Al Jadeedah
- Halat Ammar
- Al Wadiah
Travel and Vehicle Requirements
For those driving from the UAE:
- A valid UAE driving license is required
- The vehicle must have valid insurance recognized in Saudi Arabia
Third-party liability (TPL) insurance can be purchased online through the Manafith system or app. TPL insurance covers damage to others but does not include vehicle or personal coverage.
Required Documents for Road Entry
UAE residents must carry:
- Valid passport
- Emirates ID
- Valid Umrah or visit visa
- Umrah permit issued on the Nusuk app
The Nusuk app also helps schedule prayer times at Masjid Al-Haram and visits to Al Rawda Al Sharifa in Madinah.
Importance of Following Updated Umrah Rules for UAE Residents
These rules aim to:
- Improve crowd management and service quality
- Ensure accommodation safety
- Prevent administrative delays
- Enhance overall pilgrimage experience in line with Vision 2030
With proper preparation, pilgrims can avoid last-minute difficulties and focus entirely on worship.
Conclusion
Performing Umrah remains a deeply meaningful spiritual journey for UAE Muslims. The updated Umrah rules for UAE residents in 2025 ensure easier access, better procedures, and safer travel. By understanding visa policies, booking verified accommodation through Nusuk, fulfilling vaccination requirements, and following approved road routes, pilgrims can enjoy a smooth and blessed trip to Makkah and Madinah.
