Short answer: any valid Saudi visa lets you perform Umrah outside the Hajj season, including the tourist eVisa and the new UK ETA. The Umrah visa is one option, not the only one.
Last checked 3 Oct 2026
EU: most but not all EU countries are eVisa-eligible. Check your nationality on the official eVisa portal.
All options compared
UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
Who: Holders of any UK passport (since 1 July 2026).
Stay: 180 days in total, multiple entries.
Umrah allowed: Yes, outside the Hajj season.
Hotel: Book any hotel; no Nusuk Masar requirement.
Book a free Umrah permit in the Nusuk app for your chosen time slot. Praying in the mosque without performing Umrah does not need a permit.
Hajj season: Umrah on non-Umrah visas pauses before Hajj. See season dates.
Vaccination: a meningococcal ACWY vaccine is required. See the rules tracker.
Avoid look-alike sites. Apply only on the official portals linked above.
Frequently asked questions
Can I perform Umrah on a tourist visa?
Yes. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah says holders of any valid visa, including the tourist eVisa, may perform Umrah outside the Hajj season. You still need a free Umrah permit booked in the Nusuk app.
Do I need to book my hotel through Nusuk?
Only for an Umrah visa: since June 2025 it is issued only after the accommodation is documented on Nusuk Masar, so it comes as a package. On a tourist eVisa or UK ETA you can book any hotel.
How much does the visa cost?
Fees are set by the Saudi authorities and shown at payment on the official portal; they can change and are non-refundable. Check the price on the official site before you apply, and avoid third-party sites that add their own fees.
Can I do Hajj on a tourist visa?
No. Visit and tourist visas of any type do not allow Hajj. Hajj needs a Hajj visa and permit.
Sources · last checked 3 Oct 2026. Found something out of date? Tell us.
