How to plan your Umrah journey: Entry points and travel requirements

Dubai: If you are planning to embark on Umrah soon, whether through a bus package arranged by a travel agency or driving yourself, it is essential to be aware of the designated entry points specified by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Knowing these entry points will help you organise your journey and itinerary effectively.

Land border crossings for Umrah pilgrims

Umrah pilgrims can access Saudi Arabia via land ports, but only through licensed tour operators when travelling on Umrah buses. The designated land border crossings include:

• Ar Ruqi

• Al Khafaji

• King Fahd Causeway

• Salwa

• Al Batha

• Empty Quarter

• Al Haditha

• Al Durrah

• Al Jadeedah

• Halat Ammar

• Al Wadiah

Can you drive to saudi arabia from the UAE for Umrah?

Yes, you can. According to Nusuk—the official online platform for Umrah and Hajj pilgrims - pilgrims residing in neighbouring countries can enter Saudi Arabia through land ports using their own or rented vehicles. For UAE residents, a valid UAE driving licence is required.

Under Article 42 of Saudi Arabia’s Traffic Law:

“An international and foreign driving licence shall be valid for one year from the date of entry into the Kingdom, or until the licence expires, whichever comes first.”

However, during the Hajj season and the last ten days of Ramadan, driving in Makkah neighbourhoods is prohibited to prevent traffic congestion.

Car insurance is mandatory

Before you set off, ensure your vehicle is insured, as this is a mandatory requirement for foreign cars entering Saudi Arabia. Using the official Manafith system, you can purchase third-party liability (TPL) insurance online for your vehicle. This covers damages caused to other vehicles or individuals in the event of an accident but does not cover damages to your car or personal injuries.

To save time at the border, you can buy motor insurance via the Manafith website (manafeth.najm.sa) or their mobile app, available for iOS and Android devices.

Where to park in Makkah during Umrah

Upon arrival in Makkah, you will need to park your car in one of the city’s designated parking lots. There are seven main parking areas capable of accommodating up to 50,000 vehicles for Umrah pilgrims:

• Al Haramain High Express Railway Station Parking Lot

• Az Zaher Parking

• Keddi Parking

• Al Jamarat Parking

• Ar Rusaifah Parking

• Duqm Al-Waber Car Parking

• Prince Mit'ib Rd. Parking (Refinery Tunnels)

From these parking lots, shuttle buses are available to transport pilgrims directly to the Grand Mosque.

Essential travel documents: Passport, visa, and Umrah permit

To enter Saudi Arabia for Umrah, you must have the following:

• A valid passport.

• A tourist or visit visa.

• An Umrah permit, which can be obtained via the Nusuk app.

The Nusuk app is essential for booking your Umrah appointment and scheduling a slot to visit Al Rawda Al Sharifa in the Prophet’s Mosque (peace be upon him).

Visa options for Umrah pilgrims

Several visa options are available for Umrah pilgrims:

Saudi eVisa for Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) residents: Expatriates from the UAE and other GCC countries can apply for a one-year, multiple-entry eVisa, allowing a stay of up to 90 days.

Visa on arrival: Available to tourists from 49 eligible countries and holders of UK, US, or Schengen tourist/business visas.

Through the Nusuk platform: This app serves as an official guide for Makkah and Madinah, offering Umrah group packages, immigration details, and ritual guidance.

Saudi embassy or consulate: For those not eligible for eVisas or visas on arrival, an Umrah visa must be obtained through a Saudi consulate or embassy. Approved travel agents and Umrah operators listed on the Nusuk platform can assist with visa arrangements.

Transit or stopover visa: Passengers flying with Saudia or Flynas and transiting through Saudi Arabia can receive a free transit visa, allowing them to perform Umrah during their stopover.