Umrah travel guide 2025: Everything you need to know

Umrah is a holy pilgrimage to Mecca, often called the minor pilgrimage. Below are the prices, visa requirements, and key information for those planning to perform Umrah in 2025.

Who Can Perform Umrah?

There are no strict quotas or specific requirements for performing Umrah. Muslims who are financially stable, free from debt, and physically and mentally healthy can undertake the pilgrimage. However, it is recommended that pregnant women, individuals with weakened immune systems, or chronic illnesses postpone their journey.

Although Umrah has no fixed dates, Saudi Arabia only issues visas for group pilgrimages. The trip can be arranged through the Muslim Board of Uzbekistan or licensed travel agencies.

What is the cost of Umrah?

As of January 10, 2024, the Hajj and Umrah Center of the Muslim Board of Uzbekistan has set the price at 16,600,000 UZS per person for an 11-day Umrah package, which includes:

• Round-trip airfare (Tashkent - Jeddah - Tashkent);
• Hotel accommodations (3-4 people per room);
• Bus transportation;
• Three daily meals;
• Excursion to the Red Sea;
• Support from a Fatwa Center specialist, medical staff, and a group leader.

Those who prefer travel agencies can choose from different packages, with prices varying based on services:

• Standard 14-day package: $1,100 - $1,350

Includes visa, hotel, transportation, air ticket (no airline selection), alms, 5 liters of Zamzam water, medical service, 2-3 meals, and a group leader.

• Comfort 15-day package: $1,400 - $2,500 (higher during Ramadan)

Includes visa, a more comfortable hotel, high-speed train transfers, air ticket (airline selection possible), snacks, 5 liters of Zamzam water, medical service, 2-3 meals (suhur and iftar during Ramadan), and a group leader.

• Key differences:

Muslim Board-organized trips require flights via Uzbekistan Airways and only offer bus transportation in Saudi Arabia.
Tour agencies allow airline selection and offer train or bus transportation.

How to Obtain an Umrah Visa?

An Umrah visa grants pilgrims legal entry into Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah without disruptions.

Eligibility:

• Muslims aged 18 and above can apply.
• Minors under 18 must be registered with an adult guardian.

Visa Application Process:

• Applications must be submitted through licensed travel agencies.

Required documents:

• Completed application form;
• Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity from the application date);
• Recent passport-size photo (3x4 cm, white background);
• Proof of relationship (for women and children traveling with a male guardian, such as a marriage or birth certificate);
• Permission letter (for women aged 18-65 traveling in a group without a mahram);
• Confirmed return ticket.

The Umrah visa is valid for a single entry and up to 90 days. Once issued, pilgrims receive an electronic visa copy in paper form.

Best Time for Umrah and Travel Tips

Umrah can be performed year-round, but pilgrims should consider weather conditions and crowd levels.

Best time: November to February (cooler weather, fewer crowds).
During Ramadan: Spiritual significance is high, but crowds are large.
Travel tips:
Drink plenty of water and carry light snacks for prayers.
Use hand sanitizers and wash hands regularly to maintain hygiene.
Mobile apps like Nusuk are required to access holy sites and schedule Umrah rituals.