Kenyan Umrah visa

For Kenyan Muslims, the spiritual journey to Makkah and Madinah is a profoundly cherished milestone. Historically, securing an Umrah visa on a Kenyan passport required navigating complex, paper-based applications through approved travel agencies, often resulting in rigid itineraries and higher costs.

However, if you are a Kenyan citizen residing in the United Kingdom, the process has been entirely revolutionised. Thanks to recent updates by the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), Kenyan passport holders with a valid UK visa or residency now qualify for Conditional Eligibility to apply for the Saudi Multiple Entry Tourist eVisa. This legally permits you to perform Umrah independently, giving you the freedom to design your own affordable travel package.

In this comprehensive 2026 guide, we will break down exactly how you can leverage your UK status to secure your Umrah visa quickly and effortlessly.

How Your UK Status Unlocks the Saudi eVisa

Under standard Saudi visa regulations, Kenya is not included in the “Group A” list of countries eligible for an automatic eVisa or Visa on Arrival. However, the Saudi government has introduced a special exception for foreign nationals holding high-tier residencies.

As a Kenyan citizen, you are fully eligible to apply for the digital Saudi Tourist eVisa if you meet one of the following “Group B” criteria:

1. You hold a valid UK Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

2. You hold a valid UK Standard Visitor Visa that has been used at least once. (Note: If you possess a newly issued UK tourist visa, you must enter the UK with it first before it becomes valid for the Saudi eVisa system).

Expert Insight: By applying for the eVisa, you are no longer tied to specific group dates. You can book direct flights from London Heathrow, Gatwick, or Manchester directly to Jeddah or Madinah, and arrange your own boutique or budget-friendly accommodation in the holy cities.

eVisa vs. Traditional Umrah Visa for Kenyans

Why is the Tourist eVisa the superior choice for Kenyans living in the UK compared to a standard, agency-issued Umrah visa?

2026 Requirements for Kenyan Applicants in the UK

To ensure your digital application is approved without unnecessary delays, gather the following documents before you begin the online process:

• Valid Kenyan Passport: Your passport must have at least six months of validity remaining from your intended date of arrival in the Kingdom.

• Proof of UK Residency or Visa: A clear, scanned copy of your UK BRP, settlement status, or the valid, used UK visa stamped inside your passport.

• Digital Photograph: A recent passport-style photo featuring a solid white background (avoid heavy editing, shadows, or glare).

• Payment Method: A UK debit or credit card to cover the online processing fees.

Note: While you do not need to upload medical records during the application, Saudi immigration requires all arriving pilgrims to carry a valid Meningococcal (ACWY) vaccination certificate.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply Online

The digital application is highly streamlined and completely eliminates the need for physical embassy appointments.

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

2. Select the Exception Category: When prompted for your nationality, select Kenya. The system will then ask if you hold a valid UK, US, or Schengen visa/residency. Select “Yes” and input your UK details.

3. Enter Personal Data: Input your personal information exactly as it appears on the Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) of your Kenyan passport.

4. Upload Documentation: Securely upload the scan of your passport bio-page and your UK BRP or used UK Visa.

5. Process the Payment: The fee is typically between £80 and £114 (approximately 402 to 535 SAR). This cost crucially includes both the visa processing fee and the mandatory Saudi health insurance required for your stay.

6. Receive Your Visa: The vast majority of applications are processed, approved, and emailed to you within 24 to 48 hours. Print a physical copy of the PDF to present to airline staff and border control.

Important Rules and Regulations to Remember

To ensure a seamless spiritual journey and maintain compliance with Saudi law, keep the following regulations in mind:

• The Nusuk App is Mandatory: Once your eVisa is granted, you must download the official Saudi Nusuk App. You will need this application to book your mandatory time slots for performing Umrah and securing your prayer appointment in the Rawdah Mubarak at the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah.

• Hajj Restrictions: The Tourist eVisa legally permits you to perform Umrah throughout the year, but it cannot be used to perform Hajj. During the designated Hajj season, entry to Makkah is strictly restricted for all eVisa holders.

• Respect the 90-Day Limit: Do not exceed your 90-day maximum stay per visit. Overstaying will result in severe daily fines and potential bans from re-entering Saudi Arabia.

Conclusion

Residing in the United Kingdom offers Kenyan citizens a distinct advantage, removing the traditional barriers to performing Umrah. By utilising your UK residency or visa status, you can secure a 1-Year Multiple Entry Saudi eVisa online with unparalleled ease. Ensure your documents are up to date, download the necessary applications, and embrace the freedom to plan a peaceful, customised spiritual journey that perfectly fits your schedule and budget.