Welcome to the enchanting land of Saudi Arabia, where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with modern marvels to create a unique tapestry of culture and spirituality. Whether you are a citizen of the United Kingdom, the United States, or a Schengen visa holder, embarking on a journey to Saudi Arabia is an invitation to discover a nation steeped in rich history and religious significance.
For those undertaking the sacred pilgrimage of Umrah, Saudi Arabia holds a special place as the birthplace of Islam and the home to the two holiest cities, Mecca and Medina. This spiritual undertaking transcends borders, uniting Muslims from around the globe in a profound journey of faith and devotion.
As a visa holder, you are not only granted access to the historical sites and vibrant cities but also the opportunity to partake in the transformative experience of Umrah.
Saudi Arabia’s commitment to modernization is evident in its architectural wonders, bustling cities, and thriving economy. From the futuristic skyline of Riyadh to the historical charm of Jeddah, every corner of this diverse nation tells a unique story.
As you explore the vast landscapes, you’ll encounter the warmth of Saudi Arabian hospitality, where locals eagerly share their customs, cuisine, and a genuine sense of community.
This guide aims to provide you with essential information and tips to make your visit to Saudi Arabia, whether for Umrah or leisure, a seamless and unforgettable experience.
Discover the beauty, spirituality, and cultural richness that await you in this captivating realm, and may your journey be filled with moments of reflection, connection, and profound spiritual growth.
Here are 18 FAQs about FAQs on visiting Saudi Arabia/Performing Umrah for UK/US/Schengen Europe visa holders that someone posted online and we decided to share them with you to maximize the benefit.
1. What is the visa type?
On arrival. Tourist.
2. What are the requirements?
1. Passport with 6+ months validity.
2. Your visa is business or tourism.
3. You used the visa (entry stamped from the issuing country)
3. How much is it?
You pay 480 SAR at the airport, with a card.
4. Can I pay in Saudi airport with cash?
Officially not, cards only.
5. I am at the airport and my card didn’t work. What do I do?
Negotiate the terms and offer to pay in EUR/USD. Officially cash is not accepted, but I saw it clearly that someone paid in Euro cash as his card didn’t work. Do not rely on this. Prepare your card.
6. Can I take my parents?
While your US/UK/Schengen Visa is valid, yes.
7. Will I pay for my parents?
Yes, each one of them gets his/her own tourist visa for 480 SAR as well.
8. I had a Schengen visa (for example), I went to Saudi in June, got the tourist visa, then my Schengen expired in July, We are in November, can I travel to Saudi?
Yes. Once you got your Saudi visa, your UK/US/SCH is irrelevant. Forget about it.
9. I had a Schengen visa (for example), I went to Saudi in June, got the tourist visa, then my Schengen expired in August, We are in November, can I take my parents to Saudi now?
No. To take your parents, your UK/US/SCH must be valid.
10. I am travelling from Egypt, do I need a “barcode”?
No. Definitely not. Impossible. To generate the barcode, you must have a Saudi visa, and you do not have it, you want to obtain it on arrival.
11. I am travelling from Egypt, I have a valid UK/US/SCH and my parents are with me, do they need a “barcode”?
No. Definitely not. Impossible. To generate the barcode, they must have a Saudi visa, and they do not have it, you want to obtain it on arrival for them.
12. I got my Saudi visa in June, and I am now re-travelling again in November, do I need a “barcode”?
No. Definitely not. Impossible. To generate a barcode, you must have a visa issued from Egypt, and your visa is issued from Saudi Arabia. A barcode is not applicable to you.
13. A friend told me avoid wearing the Ihram (Umrah’s wear) to avoid the barcode. Is that correct?
No. That’s irrelevant. The Egyptian government now is calling it “Saudi Barcode” not “Umrah barcode” as earlier. The barcode is visa-related not purpose-related. If the barcode is not relevant to you, wear your Ihram normally.
14. To obtain that visa, must I travel to Saudi from my home country?
No. If you are Egyptian (for example) fulfilling the requirements and you are now in any country (tourism or residence), you can travel from this x country to Saudi Arabia to obtain the on arrival tourist visa.
However, Egyptian airlines operators and staff are trained and used to this kind of procedures. Other countries are not as trained as Egyptian ones. In case you are travelling from a European country (for example) to Saudi, you might have hard time convincing the airline that you are allowed to obtain an on arrival visa. I personally fought with an airline in Italy for two hours until they boarded me.
15. I am in x airport and the airline is telling me your Egyptian passport does not automatically qualify you for an on arrival visa and you are not allowed to board. What do I do?
The airlines is wrong. You are right. They did the basic procedure which is assessing your eligibility by passport only. They are not updated with the new regulations. You should:
1. Call Visit Saudi. (not email).
2. Choose the emergency line.
3. Brief them about the problem.
4. Get the airport email from the airline operator.
5. Ask visit Saudi to send an email with the official governmental law document stating the new regulations for UK/US/Schengen holders. I have this document. In case you need it, let me know.
6. The airline will receive the email, validate it, and you will board.
16. The airline refused my boarding. What do I do?
Submit a complaint to the Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) online, they shall punish the airline, and you shall get a good financial compensation. The process is easy, but if you need help, let me know.
17. I got my visa hand written in my passport. Is that normal?
As weird as it looks, but yes that is normal. You get your visa registered on their system, and written by hand on your passport. They should write to you your A. Visa number. B. Borders number. C. Issuing date. D. Expiry date.
18. How do I confirm my visa is registered on their system?
Use Absher.
If you have further questions, please let me know and I shall help to the extent of my knowledge and experience.
Thank you and keep me in your prayers.
The original post was modified for the readers ofcourse.
