Can you go to Riyadh on an Umrah Visa? – Travel Rules & Saudi Guidelines 2025
Travelling to Saudi Arabia for Umrah has become easier than before.
With the introduction of streamlined visa processes, pilgrims can make their trip enriching.
Now, one common question many people have is: “Can we go to Riyadh on an Umrah visa?” No matter if you’re from the UK, India, or any other country, it’s important to keep yourself updated about the latest travel rules and the 2025 Umrah policies.
Thus, this guide breaks down everything from visa applications, entry conditions, valid cities to visit, and the differences between tourist and Umrah visas as per the updated rules and policies.
Is it Allowed to Travel to Riyadh on an Umrah Visa?
Before we move forward, here’s the answer to the main question that many people have in their minds.
Yes, you can travel to Riyadh on an Umrah visa, but there are some conditions attached to it.
In the past, Umrah visa holders were generally restricted to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah.
Well, with the Kingdom’s new travel and tourism reforms, including easy e-visa issuance, these rules are less constraining.
Now, Umrah pilgrims can visit and explore numerous cities, including Riyadh.
However, the condition is that you must first perform Umrah before heading to Riyadh.
It’s a condition that stands to maintain the religious integrity of the Umrah pilgrimage.
So, once you fulfil it, you are allowed to enjoy the rest of Saudi Arabia, including its dynamic capital.
New 2025 Umrah Visa Policy: Travel Rules inside Saudi Arabia
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has updated its Umrah visa policy for 2025 to make religious tourism not only flexible but also appealing.
According to the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, pilgrims can now travel to different cities of the Kingdom once they are done performing their Umrah rituals.
This means pilgrims now have opportunities for sightseeing, shopping, and experiencing the Saudi culture.
This gives Umrah visa holders the ease that they can now use public and private transport, wander in local markets, and even stay in hotels outside Makkah and Madinah, including Riyadh.
Cities You Can Visit on an Umrah Visa
As of 2025, below is a list of the cities that are officially open to Umrah visa holders. (After they complete their Umrah). They are:
1
Riyadh – Which is the modern capital with a rich culture and advanced architecture
2
Jeddah – A coastal city with beaches and a mix of both tradition and luxury
3
Taif – A place known for its pleasant weather and beautiful landscapes
4
Al-Ula – A stunning heritage site in northwestern Saudi Arabia
Just don’t forget that travel must follow after completing Umrah, and your passport must remain valid throughout your stay in Saudi Arabia.
Can We Go to Riyadh on an Umrah Visa After Performing Umrah?
Absolutely. As previously mentioned, Umrah visa holders are permitted to travel to Riyadh and other parts of Saudi Arabia after performing the Umrah pilgrimage.
The reason for this revised policy is to allow pilgrims to also become visitors, which gives them a chance to explore the modern and cultural aspects of the country.
Some Umrah packages have started to include additional days in Riyadh or Jeddah, bundled with transport, guides, and ziyarat tours.
This makes the travel experience seamless and more fulfilling.
Can You Travel to Riyadh Before Performing Umrah?
As per the current guidelines, travelling to Riyadh before performing Umrah is not allowed.
The visa is issued specifically for Umrah, and fulfilling that spiritual obligation comes first.
Therefore, you can visit other cities like Riyadh only after the pilgrimage.
Riyadh vs. Makkah & Madinah: What to Expect on Your Visit
While Makkah and Madinah offer unmatched spiritual value, Riyadh provides a contrasting experience.
It’s a city of innovation, business, and culture.
Thus, the places you must visit are the King Abdulaziz Historical Centre and the Sky Bridge at the Kingdom Tower.
Also, explore the local cuisines from Najd Village (famous for Kabsa) or Al Romansiah (renowned for Dajaj Mashwi/grilled chicken), and visit shopping complexes, Kingdom Centre Mall and Al Nakheel Mall.
Makkah and Madinah have religious aura, however Riyadh offers a glimpse into modern Saudi Arabia.
Therefore, it is worth including in your travel packages.
How to Apply for an Umrah Visa Online?
Getting an Umrah visa is now easier, thanks to the online platforms approved by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
Still, most people go through authorised travel agencies that offer packages including visa processing, flights, hotels, and transport to avoid the hassle.
MOFA Umrah Visa Explained
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) manages the online application for the Umrah visa.
You can either apply directly or through a certified agent.
The application will ask for personal details, passport information, travel dates, and the city of arrival, usually Jeddah or Madinah.
Umrah Visa Validity and Entry Requirements
The Umrah visa is generally valid for 90 days.
However, pilgrims are expected to complete their pilgrimage within 30 days of entry.
The visa is single-entry, so if you leave Saudi Arabia, you’ll need to apply again if you wish to return.
Required documents include:
1
A valid passport (at least 6 months remaining)
2
Confirmed return ticket
3
Proof of travel itinerary and accommodation
4
Polio and COVID-19 vaccination certificates (as per seasonal requirements)
Umrah Visa Price and Processing Time
Prices of Umrah Visas vary based on the packages, but they typically range from $100 to $200 USD.
Processing typically takes 5–7 business days, especially if done through a licensed travel agent.
Some agents offer express options at an additional cost.
Can I Perform Umrah on a Tourist Visa Instead?
Yes, using a tourist visa, you can perform Umrah.
This is now one of the biggest changes in Saudi Arabia’s religious tourism policy.
This has made it very easy for visitors to access and explore the holy sites.
What Is the Difference Between a Saudi Tourist Visa and an Umrah Visa?
| Feature | Umrah Visa | Tourist Visa |
| Purpose | Religious pilgrimage | Leisure & travel (includes Umrah) |
| Validity | ~90 days | 1 year (multiple entry) |
| Cities Allowed | Post-Umrah only | All across the country |
| Application | Through agents or MOFA | Direct online via the portal |
| Includes Hajj? | No | No |
“You can apply for a tourist visa if you’re eligible (especially from the UK, USA, EU, etc.) and perform Umrah during your visit, though Hajj still requires a separate, restricted visa”
FAQs
Conclusion: Can We Go to Riyadh on an Umrah Visa?
To summarise, yes, you can go to Riyadh on an Umrah visa, but only after performing Umrah.
The 2025 Saudi Arabia guidelines are more flexible than ever and encourage pilgrims to explore more of the country.
So, whether you’re booking from the UK or elsewhere, there are plenty of packages available that let you enjoy both your pilgrimage and a cultural travel experience.
Just make sure that your passport is valid and you follow the visa travel rules.
That makes you ready for a rewarding journey across Saudi Arabia!
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