Eligibility
First thing first, are you fit and well to travel. While planning your trip make sure to consider if your immigration status allows you to travel to Saudi and if you require any transit visas along the way. A Travel Document (without a visa) is no longer a valid document to enter Saudi Arabia. Also check the eligibilities and make sure to carry all relevant and necessary documents if you are opting for on arrival visa.
Visa
Obtain a visa directly from official site
ksavisa.sa. Otherwise visit any of your local Ministry of Hajj and Umrah approved agencies should you require any assistance.
Book a cheap or a convenient flight
Search hundreds of flights at your convenience and secure your flight booking with
flight search to make your journey is hassle-free. You can use the filter function to see availability that fit your requirements. Make sure to review your ticket before payments, airports, terminals, date and time.
Book Hotels
Book a
hotel of your choice for Makkah and Madinah. When booking a hotel, bear in mind that some hotels are designated for a certain nationality and that it may not be suitable for your stay. Always be wary of online scammers, too cheap, don’t fall for it, check their credentials. Look out for correct number of beds you require. Also it is a common question at the immigration regarding where will you be staying, so make sure to carry your confirmed reservation details HCN.
Transfers and City Tour (Ziyarah)
You may wish to
pre-book your transportations for your conveniences and security, or arrive at the airport where you have a choice of individuals, local taxi firms and apps such as Uber. Booking a taxi for your transfers and city tour is simple and easy but you’ve got to understand the art of haggling soon as you step out of the airport. From Jeddah King Abdulaziz International Airport there is also an option of Haramain High Speed Rail service.
Tickets can be purchased online, at kiosk and at the ticket offices located within train station (HHR do not operate 24/7).
Nusuk App for Umrah & Rawdah
Download Nusuk App to book available slots for Umrah in Makkah and to visit the Holy Rawdah in Madinah Mosque. Nusuk App Links: iPhone & Android Phones
Insurance
Travel
insurance is recommended. EVW visa does not have any medical cover, it would remain your own responsibility to pay for any medical treatments unless you take out your own medical policy in advance. Travel insurance can not be purchased after departure.
Advice
Planning a DIY Umrah requires careful preparation and understanding the rituals of Umrah. Ensure to secure a visa, book flights and accommodations, pack essential items like Ihram and slippers. It's also wise to familiarise yourself with the latest regulations, choose your dates and budget well in advance, and consider the best time to travel. Also remember when selecting a hotel, sometimes they do not give accurate locations on map. Consider using an approved online agent for your bookings as the saying goes: No credentials, No accountability.
More
Visit
Umrah page to understand how to perform Umrah. And visit Umrah
policy page to understand all key aspects of visiting Saudi Arabia.
