8 differences between Umrah visa and Tourist visa

Tourists can enter Saudi Arabia either on an Umrah visa or on a tourist visa. If you are unable to decide which one to choose, here are the major differences between an Umrah visa v/s tourist visa.

Difference 1: Nationality

Tourist Visa: Citizens of 49 countries can apply for a Saudi tourist visa. Moreover, People with a valid U.S, U.K or Schengen Visa on their passport can get an on-arrival tourist visa to Saudi Arabia.

Umrah Visa: Anyone can apply for an Umrah visa from any country in the world.

differences between Umrah visa and Tourist visa

Difference 2: Religion

The second and most basic difference between Umrah and Saudi tourist visa is the religion;

  • Tourist Visa: Anyone can apply for a Saudi tourist visa irrespective of religion.
  • Umrah Visa: Only Muslims can apply for an Umrah visa.
Muslim wearing ihram clothes and ready for Hajj

Difference 3: Fee

  • Tourist Visa: The fee to apply for Saudi Tourist Visa is SR 440.
  • Umrah Visa: There is no official fee to apply for an Umrah visa. However, agents charge some amount as document processing charges.

Saudi Arabia on-arrival visa for Pakistani and Indians

Difference 4: Method of applying

  • Tourist Visa: You can apply for it online.
  • Umrah Visa: You can only apply for it through an agent.

Difference 5: Validity

Another major difference between the Umrah visa v/s tourist visa is its validity;

  • Tourist Visa is a multiple-entry visa with a maximum duration of stay of 90 days.
  • Umrah Visa is a single-entry visa with a maximum duration of stay of 90 days.

umrah visa v/s tourist visa

Difference 6: Insurance

  • Tourist Visa are required to take travel insurance while entering Saudi Arabia. This insurance covers only emergency cases.
  • Umrah Visa: The health treatment of Umrah visa holders is covered by the Saudi Government no matter if it is an emergency or routine treatment.
  • How to get free dialysis on Umrah visa?

Difference 7: Arrival at KSA

  • Tourist Visa holders can enter Saudi Arabia at any time of the year.
  • Umrah Visa: Saudi embassy stops issuing Umrah visas during the hajj season.

Difference 8: Carrying ZamZam

Similarities between Umrah and Tourist visa

There are some similarities between Umrah and Tourist visa holders too;

  • Both visa holders can perform Umrah.
  • You cannot perform Hajj on any of these visas.
  • Both visa holders can enter Saudi Arabia through any airport. 
  • Both visa holders can visit any city.

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Steve has vast experience in writing about Saudi rules, regulations, guides, and procedures.