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Updated September 2023
The Umrah is a minor, non-compulsory pilgrimage that any able-bodied Muslim with adequate financial means may undertake to gain the blessings and favour of Allah. Umrah is seen as a way for Muslims to seek forgiveness, spiritual renewal, and a closer connection to God. It is also an opportunity for Muslims to visit the birthplace of their religion and the holiest city in Islam.
Pilgrims looking to fulfil this religious calling are required to first obtain an Umrah visa before entering the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. If you’re planning to visit Makkah from India to perform Umrah, here’s how you can apply for an Umrah visa.
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Umrah from India news 2023
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has initiated the issuance of digital visas for Umrah, as part of its efforts to facilitate the arrival of a greater number of Muslims to the Kingdom for the purpose of performing the Umrah pilgrimage. This initiative aims to streamline the procedures involved in undertaking the Umrah pilgrimage and aligns with the objectives outlined in Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to enhance the quality of Umrah services.
According to the ministry, individuals interested in obtaining electronic visas can now submit their applications through the Nusuk platform. This will enable them to commence their journey to the Kingdom starting from July 19.
As part of recently implemented regulations, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has introduced several amenities for Umrah performers. These include a significant reduction of 63% in insurance fees, while ensuring the sustainability of healthcare services. Additionally, the issuance of Umrah visas will be expedited, taking less than 24 hours, and the duration of the Umrah visa has been extended from 30 days to 90 days, with no health requirements.
Do I need an Umrah visa from India?
Yes, it is important to note that Indians looking to perform the Umrah are required to first obtain any type of Saudi visa. These include the Umrah visa, Saudi tourist visa, transit visa, as well as the free 4-day visa.
Umrah visa from India online application
The Saudi authorities have launched an electronic service for Umrah seekers to obtain their Umrah visa within 24 hours. Umrah seekers residing in countries all over the world may now directly apply through the Maqam platform. To apply for the Umrah visa online, follow the below steps:
- visit the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah’s Maqam portal and choose one of the approved Umrah companies
- build your Umrah package consisting of accommodation, transportation, and ground services with your selected company
- after securing your umrah package, you will receive the reference number for the application
- you’ll be redirected to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs portal, where you’ll need to complete the visa issuance process
Umrah visa vaccine requirements for Indians
Although Saudi Arabia has largely lifted the COVID-19 vaccination requirement for Umrah pilgrims, it is highly recommended that each pilgrim confirm with their Umrah operator/agency for the latest vaccination requirements pertaining to Umrah. This is to ensure a smooth and hassle-free Umrah journey, as well as to protect the health and safety of all individuals involved.
Apart from COVID-19 vaccine, Umrah pilgrims also need to be inoculated against yellow fever, meningococcal meningitis, polio, and seasonal influenza.
For more information on vaccines needed for Umrah, check out our dedicated article.
Umrah visa through approved travel agencies
Alternatively, you can get the visa package booking and visa issuance application done through an approved tourism agency in your country.
The government of Saudi Arabia recommends that you enlist the assistance of an approved travel agent in India to obtain your Umrah visa. Furthermore, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced the possibility for international Umrah seekers to plan their own itineraries electronically through approved platforms.
To learn more about how you can arrange your Umrah journey from your city, please consult our dedicated article below.
Umrah visa from India processing time
The processing time for an Umrah visa from India typically takes between 5 – 10 days until issuance.
Umrah visa from India price
The Umrah visa itself is available free of cost. However, there may be fees associated with processing and other Umrah-related services. It’s been reported that these fees may amount to somewhere between USD 200 to 300 (INR 16,520 – 24,780).
