The choice of the Umrah visa depends on the personal preference of Umrah travelers. They can perform Umrah using a Saudi tourist visa if they have already planned to visit Saudi Arabia for a business visit or tourism purposes. Otherwise, they have a straight path to choose the option of Umrah visa to perform the Holy Umrah pilgrimage. Umrah visa is specifically a permit to perform Umrah and visit the sacred sites. Both options have benefits and some flaws, and Umrah travelers can opt for one according to their suitability. Now you will read the comparison of both the Saudi tourist’s visa and the Umrah visa from comprehensive website of Hajj Umrah package which provides every detail about both types and helps you to choose the best one.
Saudi Tourists Visa
The sightseers, frequent travelers, and independent pilgrims usually choose the Saudi tourists' visa. It is valid for 1 year with multiple entries that allow you to stay up to 90 days per visit. The Saudi Tourists visa allows pilgrims to visit multiple times. The Tourists visa allows tourists to visit all cities of the country.
Umrah Visa
Umrah visa is best for the first-time Umrah pilgrims. The Umrah traveler’s book Umrah visa with authorized agents, and this Umrah visa is valid for short-term duration. The Umrah visa allows entry in specific cities such as Jeddah, Makkah, and Medina. The Umrah visa is valid only for religious purposes and is mostly booked via an approved Travel Agency.
Which One is Better?
For Umrah travelers, it is difficult to categorise one Visa better than another. Therefore, the Travelers can choose one according to their budget, travel style and nationality. The Umrah travelers can check the features of both the Umrah visa and select the appropriate one.
| Features | Umrah Visa | Saudi Tourists eVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Religious Pilgrimage | Tourism + Umrah |
| Validity | Lasts for short duration | Allows multi-entries for 1 year |
| Flexibility | Limited | Much more flexible |
| Method of Application | Visa approved agents/Nusuk App | From Saudi online portal for Saudi tourist visa |
| Ideal for | For Umrah pilgrims or Group Travelers | Independent travelers & Families |
Why Tourists eVisa is more Appropriate and Preferable?
More Flexibility
The Umrah tourist visa allows multiple entries, and it is valid for a longer period. The Tourists eVisa offers freedom to visit other cities such as Makkah, Medina, Jeddah, and Riyadh.
Easier Online Process
The procedure of Saudi tourist’s eVisa is easier and it offers an opportunity to all nationalities to apply online. Whereas the Umrah visa is approved by assistance of approved agents, packages, hotel/transport bookings and Nusuk-linked arrangements.
Less Restrictions
Tourists visas offer flexible travel dates which are more convenient as compared to Umrah visa which offers fixed travel dates.
Why is the Umrah Visa Better?
- Umrah visa is better as all citizens of all countries are eligible to apply for an Umrah visa, while all not all countries are eligible for Saudi tourist’s visa.
- Using an Umrah visa, you can travel with a group of other Umrah travelers.
- The Umrah travelers with an Umrah visa can avail structured assistance on the Umrah pilgrimage.
- When you are planning to perform Umrah with your family, you can book family Umrah packages that offer complete assistance in Umrah visa approval for all members of the family including guidelines for children.
Restrictions during Hajj Season
Entry in Makkah for religious purpose on Umrah visa or Tourists visa is prohibited. Tourist visa holders face checkpoint restrictions near Makkah city. While the Umrah visas are suspended during the Hajj season.