You’re booking a flight and realize that a layover in Saudi Arabia could become something extraordinary. With the Saudi Arabia stopover visa for Umrah, you can step off your plane, perform Umrah in Makkah, visit Madinah, and even explore historic sites, all within 96 hours and for only SAR 52.50 in processing and insurance fees.
This program, launched in January 2023, has turned the Kingdom into more than a transit hub. It gives travelers a chance to experience both faith and culture without the need for a long stay or complicated paperwork.
How the Program Works
The visa is completely free, but you pay SAR 39.50 for processing and about SAR 13 for mandatory medical insurance. That is the full cost. Once approved, you can stay in the Kingdom for up to four days within a 90-day window from the date of issuance.
The visa is available only through Saudia Airlines and Flynas, the national carriers. When you book flights with a layover between 12 and 96 hours in Riyadh, Jeddah, or Dammam, you can apply for the stopover visa directly through the airline’s website.
Who Can Apply
As of April 2025, eligibility is limited to travelers whose journeys begin or end in one of 19 designated countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, Italy, Malaysia, Singapore, and Turkey. You must also show a valid visa history for one of these countries. This ensures the program stays secure while serving active travel markets.
Saudi Arabia Stopover Visa Application Process
- Book your Saudia or Flynas flight with the right layover time.
- Select the stopover visa option during booking.
- Provide your passport details, a photo, and onward ticket.
- Pay SAR 52.50 for processing and insurance.
- Receive your e-visa by email, often within minutes.
With the visa in hand, you are ready to enter the Kingdom.
Performing Umrah During Your Stopover
To perform Umrah, you must register through Nusuk.sa, the official platform. Create an account, upload your visa, and choose your Umrah appointment. You can also reserve permits to visit the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah. The process is simple and ensures an organized experience for every pilgrim.
This visa does not allow Hajj, but it opens the door for Umrah and Ziyarah at holy sites.
Added Travel Benefits
Saudia makes the program even more attractive with complimentary hotel stays. Economy passengers receive a one-night stay in a four-star hotel, while business class passengers enjoy two nights in a five-star hotel. To use this benefit, you must book at least 48 hours in advance through Saudia Holidays.
Imagine landing in Jeddah, checking into your free hotel, performing Umrah at the Grand Mosque, then continuing your journey refreshed.
Why You Would Want to Apply for The Stopover Visa
The Saudi Arabia stopover visa for Umrah is designed for people who want to combine faith with travel convenience. It saves time, reduces cost, and allows you to make the most of a layover. It also encourages visitors to see more of the Kingdom, from UNESCO sites like Diriyah and Al-Balad to cultural spaces in Riyadh and AlUla.
For the Kingdom, the program supports Vision 2030 by attracting millions of visitors, strengthening airports as global hubs, and growing cultural and religious tourism.
The Future of the Stopover Experience
Eligibility rules may expand in the future, but even now, this visa stands as one of the most accessible ways to experience Saudi Arabia. Whether you are planning a short journey of faith or want to add cultural discovery to your flight route, this program is built to welcome you.
A Journey of Faith and Convenience
Think about what four days in the Kingdom could mean. You walk into the Grand Mosque in Makkah with your stopover visa, your heart steady and full. You pray, you reflect, and then you step outside into the rhythm of the city. In Madinah, you stand in the quiet courtyards of the Prophet’s Mosque. Maybe you wander Jeddah’s Al-Balad or catch the golden light on the mudbrick walls of Diriyah.
When you leave, it is not just another flight connection. It is a memory shaped in the heart of Saudi Arabia. The Saudi Arabia stopover visa for Umrah makes that possible in the span of 96 hours.
FAQs
What is the Saudi Arabia stopover visa for Umrah?
It is a special visa that allows travelers on Saudia or Flynas flights to enter the Kingdom for up to 96 hours. During this time, you can perform Umrah, visit Madinah, and explore cultural sites for a processing and insurance fee of only SAR 52.50.
How long can I stay with the Saudi Arabia stopover visa for Umrah?
The visa is valid for up to 96 hours, or four days, from the moment you arrive. You must exit on a confirmed Saudia or Flynas flight within that time.
Who is eligible for the Saudi Arabia stopover visa for Umrah?
Eligibility currently applies to travelers from 19 designated countries including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, Italy, Malaysia, Singapore, and Turkey. You must also hold a valid travel history with one of these countries.
How do I apply for the Saudi Arabia stopover visa for Umrah?
You apply online when booking flights with Saudia or Flynas. Select the stopover visa option, provide your documents, pay SAR 52.50, and receive the e-visa by email.
Can I perform Umrah with the stopover visa?
Yes. After receiving the visa, you must register through the official Nusuk.sa platform to book your Umrah appointment and secure permits for Makkah and Madinah visits.
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This article is brought to you by Soul of Saudi (a Saudi travel blog dedicated to uncovering the beauty, heart, and soul of the Kingdom).
