How to Perform Umrah Using Saudi Arabia’s New Stopover Visa

Saudi Arabia has introduced a convenient and accessible way for international travelers to perform Umrah through its newly launched stopover visa, allowing short stays of up to 96 hours (four days) in the Kingdom. Most Umrah visitors to the kingdom typically get visa within their Umrah packages. But this visa gives you access to Umrah on a short tipr to Makkah. This initiative is particularly beneficial for those transiting through Saudi Arabia on long-haul flights, providing an opportunity to perform Umrah without needing a traditional Umrah visa.

This development is part of the Kingdom’s broader strategy to enhance tourism and religious travel as part of its Vision 2030 goals. By simplifying entry procedures, the government aims to make Umrah more accessible to millions of Muslims traveling through Saudi airspace.

What Is the Stopover Umrah Visa?

The stopover visa is a short-term entry permit issued to travelers transiting through Saudi Arabia. It allows a stay of up to 96 hours and is primarily offered to passengers flying with Saudia or Flynas, the two national airlines of Saudi Arabia. This visa enables travelers to explore the country, visit key cultural sites, and perform Umrah—all within a short layover period.

Unlike traditional visas, the stopover visa is free of charge, though a small administrative and insurance fee is usually applicable. The visa is valid for single entry and must be used within 90 days of issuance.

Who Is Eligible?

The stopover visa is available to passengers of all nationalities who book transit flights with Saudia or Flynas. However, travelers must ensure the following:

Their passport is valid for at least six months.

Their final destination is outside Saudi Arabia.

The layover period does not exceed 96 hours.

They have a confirmed onward flight and necessary visas for their final destination (if applicable).

While most nationalities can access the visa, some restrictions may apply based on diplomatic relations or airline system limitations. For example, certain nationalities might not see the stopover visa option during online booking, particularly if specific visa conditions aren’t met.

How to Apply for the Stopover Visa

Applying for the stopover visa is straightforward and integrated into the airline booking process. Here’s how it works:

1. Book an Eligible Flight

Travelers must first book an international flight with a layover in Saudi Arabia using either Saudia or Flynas. The layover should be no more than 96 hours, and both the departure and final destination should be outside of Saudi Arabia.

2. Select the Stopover Visa Option

During the booking process—or shortly after confirmation—the passenger will be prompted to apply for a stopover visa. This is typically available through the airline's website or mobile application.

3. Complete the Application

The visa application requires basic personal and travel information. Most travelers receive the visa via email within minutes of submitting the application, though processing times can vary slightly.

4. Pay the Required Fees

While the visa itself is free, travelers must pay a nominal fee that covers administration and mandatory travel insurance, which includes health coverage during their stay in Saudi Arabia.

Performing Umrah on a Stopover Visa

One of the standout features of this visa is the ability to perform Umrah during a short stay. Here’s what travelers need to do:

1. Register for Umrah

After securing the stopover visa, travelers must register for an Umrah permit through the official Nusuk platform. This system is used to schedule and manage pilgrim visits to the holy sites.

2. Book Approved Accommodation

Saudi authorities now require all Umrah pilgrims—including those on stopover visas—to have confirmed hotel reservations in Makkah or Madinah. This booking must be made through approved travel platforms and submitted along with the Umrah application.

3. Present Documents at Immigration

Upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, travelers must present:

Their valid passport

Stopover visa

Confirmed onward flight ticket

Umrah permit

Hotel reservation

Once cleared by immigration, travelers are free to proceed to Makkah and perform Umrah within the allotted 96-hour timeframe.

Benefits of the Stopover Visa for Umrah

This visa offers a number of advantages, especially for Muslim travelers who are passing through Saudi Arabia on their way to other destinations:

No need for a traditional Umrah visa

Minimal cost, with only small processing and insurance fees

Quick application and approval process

Ideal for short visits to Makkah or Madinah

Available to most nationalities

It’s an excellent option for those who wish to perform Umrah but don’t have the time or resources for a longer trip.

Important Considerations

While the stopover visa provides flexibility and convenience, travelers should be aware of the following limitations:

Concern	Details
Not valid for Hajj	This visa only allows for Umrah, not Hajj.
Single-entry only	The visa cannot be extended or reused after exit.
Flight restrictions	Only valid for transit flights with Saudia or Flynas.
Accommodation requirement	Hotel bookings must be made in advance through approved platforms.
Online system limitations	Some users may not see the visa option depending on their nationality or passport.

 

Timely Opportunity for Travelers

Saudi Arabia resumed Umrah visa issuance in early June after the Hajj season, enabling year-round access for pilgrims. The stopover visa offers a unique opportunity for travelers to perform Umrah even during brief transit stays. This system simplifies the journey for millions of Muslims who previously had to go through a separate, often more complex visa process.

Moreover, the stopover visa is not just limited to religious visits. Tourists can also use it to explore key destinations like Riyadh, Jeddah, AlUla, or Madinah, making it a powerful tool for tourism growth.

Step-by-Step Summary

Here’s a quick recap of how to use the stopover visa for Umrah:

Book flights with Saudia or Flynas that include a layover in Saudi Arabia (max 96 hours).

Select and apply for the stopover visa during the booking process.

Pay the insurance/admin fees as part of the application.

Register for Umrah and obtain a permit through the Nusuk platform.

Book hotel accommodation in Makkah or Madinah in advance.

Arrive in Saudi Arabia with all required documents.

Perform Umrah during the stopover period.

Continue your journey to your final destination.

Saudi Arabia’s stopover visa is a progressive and highly welcomed step toward easing access to Umrah for international travelers. With minimal requirements and seamless integration into airline booking systems, it enables millions of Muslims to fulfill their spiritual obligations even during a short transit.

Whether you're on a business trip, heading to Europe, or returning home from vacation, this visa provides a convenient and cost-effective opportunity to experience the holy sites of Makkah and Madinah—even if just for a few hours.

For many, it’s a spiritual opportunity too important to miss.

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