Dubai: UAE residents are cutting their Umrah costs by up to 50% by using Saudi Arabia’s stopover visa, which allows short stays in the Kingdom during transit for vacations or business trips. This smart travel option has gained popularity, making the pilgrimage more accessible and affordable.
A Budget-Friendly Solution
Egyptian expat Abdel Hadi shared his experience of choosing this option for his family of six. Initially planning to apply for Umrah visas, he was advised by a travel agent to consider the stopover visa instead.
“With the transit visa, we completed the pilgrimage for just Dh8,000, including accommodation, food, and flights,” he said. This was nearly half the cost of a standard package, which would have exceeded Dh15,000. The family travelled by train from Jeddah airport to Makkah and then to Madina, combining convenience with affordability.
Ideal for Business Travellers
For businesswoman Amina S. Mohideen, the stopover visa has been a game-changer. She frequently travels to London and uses this opportunity to perform Umrah without the need for a separate trip.
“I used to pay about Dh2,000 for a three-day Umrah trip. Now, I spend only Dh1,500, including accommodation, food, and transport,” she explained. The visa allows her to incorporate the pilgrimage into her travel schedule without additional costs.
A Growing Trend
Shahbaz Ali, a frequent traveler and business executive, highlighted how the stopover visa has made fulfilling religious obligations easier. “This option lets me manage my time effectively and still complete all the required rituals,” he said.
Travel industry professionals like Qaiser Mehmood from Asaa Tours and Travels have noted a rise in the use of transit visas for Umrah. “Many UAE residents now prefer this option for its cost savings and flexibility,” he said.
Some pilgrims save even more by skipping hotel stays, opting instead to perform Umrah and return to Jeddah airport for their connecting flights.
How the Stopover Visa Works
Available through Saudia Airlines, the stopover visa allows travellers to stay in Saudi Arabia for up to four days. It’s a convenient way to combine transit travel with a spiritual journey, making it a practical choice for residents in the UAE.
This approach reflects how UAE residents are finding innovative ways to fulfill their religious duties while managing costs and time efficiently.
