Multiple Entry Visa

For British Muslims, the journey to Makkah and Madinah is a profound spiritual milestone. Historically, performing Umrah required navigating complex paperwork, visiting the embassy, and securing single-entry visas through specialized agencies. Today, Saudi Arabia’s modernized digital visa system has completely transformed the experience. For UK citizens looking for maximum flexibility, the Saudi Multiple Entry Visa (officially issued as the Tourist eVisa) is the ultimate solution.

Whether you wish to perform Umrah several times a year, visit family in Jeddah, or explore Saudi Arabia’s rich Islamic heritage, this guide covers everything you need to know about securing your multiple-entry visa.

What is the Multiple Entry Umrah Visa?

While many pilgrims refer to it as the “Umrah Multiple Entry Visa,” the official document you are applying for is the Saudi Tourist eVisa. The Saudi Ministry of Tourism allows UK passport holders to use this eVisa to perform Umrah legally, making it the most versatile travel document available to British pilgrims today.

Key Features of the Multiple Entry eVisa

• Validity Period: The visa is valid for a full 365 days from the exact date of issue.

• Entry Allowance: Multiple entries are permitted throughout the year, meaning you can fly back and forth between the UK and Saudi Arabia as often as you like.

• Maximum Stay: You can stay up to 90 days per visit.

• Included Insurance: The Multiple Entry eVisa automatically includes mandatory Saudi health insurance, which covers medical emergencies up to 100,000 SAR during your stay.

Multiple Entry eVisa vs. Standard Umrah Visa

Why should UK travellers choose the multiple-entry tourist eVisa over a traditional, single-entry Umrah visa?

1. Unmatched Flexibility: Traditional Umrah visas are strictly tied to a 30-day entry window upon issuance. The multiple-entry eVisa allows you to travel at a moment’s notice anytime within its 1-year validity. This is perfect for taking advantage of last-minute flight deals from London or Manchester.

2. Tourism & Travel Freedom: The eVisa permits you to travel freely across the entirety of Saudi Arabia. You can perform your rituals in Makkah and Madinah, then take the Haramain High-Speed Railway to explore other regions.

3. Do-It-Yourself Booking: Traditional Umrah visas often require booking through an approved agency. The eVisa allows independent UK travellers to book their own flights, budget accommodations, or luxury boutique hotels directly, potentially saving hundreds of pounds.

2026 Requirements for British Passport Holders

The application process is fully digital, incredibly streamlined, and does not require a trip to the Saudi Embassy in London. To guarantee a swift approval, ensure you meet the following requirements before applying:

• Valid UK Passport: You must hold a full British Citizen passport with at least six months of validity remaining from your intended date of arrival in Saudi Arabia.

• Digital Photograph: A recent, clear passport-style photo with a white background. Ensure there are no filters, glare, or heavy edits.

• Vaccination Compliance: While you do not upload this during the application, you must carry a valid Meningococcal (ACWY) vaccination certificate to present at Saudi immigration control.

• Nusuk App Registration: After your visa is granted, you must download the official Saudi Nusuk App. This application is mandatory for booking your Umrah time slots and securing prayer appointments for the Rawdah Mubarak in Madinah.

How to Apply: A Step-by-Step Guide

Securing your multiple-entry visa takes just a few minutes if you have your documents ready.

1. Visit the Official Portal: Navigate directly to the official Visit Saudi eVisa website.

2. Create an Account: Register with an active email address and verify your account.

3. Fill in the Application: Enter your personal details exactly as they appear on the Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) of your UK passport. Even minor typos can result in boarding denials.

4. Pay the Fees: The total cost is generally around £80 to £100 (approximately 402 SAR, which covers the visa, digital fees, and the mandatory medical insurance). Payments can be made securely via standard debit or credit cards.

5. Receive Instant Approval: Most UK applicants receive their approved eVisa via email within minutes, though it can occasionally take up to 24 hours.

Crucial Restrictions to Keep in Mind

To ensure a seamless journey and maintain compliance with Saudi law, it is critical to adhere to the following visa regulations:

• The Hajj Exclusion: You cannot perform Hajj on a multiple-entry Tourist eVisa. During the Hajj season, standard eVisas will not grant you access to Makkah. If you wish to perform Hajj, you must apply for a specific Hajj visa through the Nusuk Hajj platform.

• 90-Day Limit: Do not exceed your 90-day stay per visit. Overstaying results in heavy daily fines, detention, and potential bans from re-entering the Kingdom in the future.

• No Employment: This visa strictly prohibits engaging in any form of paid or unpaid work within Saudi Arabia. It is strictly for tourism, visiting family, and performing Umrah.

By understanding these guidelines and preparing your documents in advance, you can enjoy the spiritual and cultural wonders of Saudi Arabia with complete peace of mind.