SAUDI Arabia ETA Visa for UK itizens

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Saudi Arabia ETA for UK Citizens: What Pilgrims Need to Know

If you are a UK passport holder planning a visit to Saudi Arabia for religious purposes, it is essential to understand the new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme – especially what it covers and what it does not cover.

Crucial Reminder: The ETA Does NOT Cover Hajj

The Saudi ETA, which took effect on 1 July 2026, is a convenient digital travel authorisation for many short‑term visits. However, it explicitly excludes Hajj pilgrimage. If you intend to perform Hajj, you must apply for a dedicated Hajj visa through the official Saudi channels. The ETA cannot be used as a substitute, regardless of your length of stay.

What Is the Saudi ETA?

The ETA is an electronic authorisation linked to your passport number. There is no need to print anything – it is checked automatically upon arrival. It is designed for short‑term visits for the following purposes:

Tourism
Business trips
Short‑term study
Medical treatment
Umrah {provided it is performed outside the Hajj season (Check the Umrah closing Date of 2027)}

All types of UK passports are eligible.

ETA Application Cost Through Adam Travel

The total cost of applying (Check Umrah Visa cost)for an ETA through Adam Travel is approximately £30–£35 per person. This includes the official £20 ETA application fee plus a £10–£15 processing fee for assistance with completing and submitting the application.

Cost	Price
ETA Application Fee	£20 per person
Processing Fee	£10–£15 per person
Total Cost	£30–£35 per person

Adam Travel can assist applicants throughout the ETA application process, helping ensure the required information is submitted correctly.

Key Facts at a Glance

Feature	Details
Launch date	1 July 2026
Validity	730 days (2 years) from issue
Entry type	Multiple entries
Maximum stay	Up to 180 days in total within the 2‑year period
Eligible purposes	Tourism, business, study, medical treatment, Umrah (outside Hajj)
Not covered	Employment, residency, Hajj
Eligible applicants	All UK passport holders
ETA Application Cost	£20 pp
Processing Fee	£ 10-15

Umrah vs Hajj – What’s the Difference?

Many British Muslims may wonder whether the ETA can be used for religious travel. Here is the clear distinction:

Umrah (minor pilgrimage)

The ETA is permitted for Umrah, as long as your visit takes place outside the official Hajj season. During the Hajj season, ETA holders may face restrictions on entering Makkah or designated pilgrimage areas.

Hajj (major pilgrimage)

The ETA is NOT permitted for Hajj. Hajj requires a separate, specially issued Hajj visa and permit. The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that the ETA does not replace the Hajj visa.

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How to Apply for an ETA

The application process is entirely online and typically takes only a few minutes.

What you need:

A British passport valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date
A recent digital passport‑style photo
Your travel dates and accommodation details
A payment card for the government fee (95 SAR, non‑refundable)

Processing time: Usually 1–3 working days.

Important Points to Remember

Passport validity: Your passport must have at least 6 months remaining from the date you arrive in Saudi Arabia.
Previous travel to Israel: You may be refused entry if your passport shows evidence of travel to, or birth in, Israel.
Dual nationals: When returning to the UK, you must carry a valid British passport.
Overstaying: Overstaying your ETA can result in heavy fines, detention, deportation, and a ban from re‑entering Saudi Arabia.
Health insurance: The ETA does not include health insurance – you should arrange your own cover.

Summary – Which Authorisation Do You Need?

Purpose of travel	Use ETA?
Tourism	✅ Yes
Business	✅ Yes
Short‑term study	✅ Yes
Umrah (outside Hajj season)	✅ Yes
Hajj	❌ No – apply for Hajj visa
Employment	❌ No
Residence	❌ No

Final Advice for UK Pilgrims

If you are travelling for Umrah outside the Hajj season, the ETA is a quick and convenient option.
If you are travelling for Hajj, do not apply for an ETA – instead, contact the Saudi Embassy or an authorised Hajj travel agent to secure the correct visa.
Always double‑check your travel purpose and the current rules before booking flights or accommodation.

For the most up‑to‑date and official information, refer to the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the Saudi Embassy in the UK.

FaQ's

How much does the Saudi ETA cost through Adam Travel?

The Saudi government charges 95 SAR (or £ 20) per applicant, non-refundable, plus Adam Travel’s flat £10-15 per person service charge — with no hidden extras.

How long is the Saudi ETA valid for?

It’s valid for 730 days (2 years) from the date of issue, allowing multiple entries, with a combined maximum stay of 180 days across that period.

Can I use the ETA for Umrah?

Yes, as long as it’s outside Hajj season. The ETA cannot be used to perform Hajj itself, which needs a separate Hajj visa.

Do children need their own ETA application?

Yes, every traveller, including children, needs an individual application.

How long does ETA processing take?

Typically 1 to 3 working days once your application is submitted.

Does the ETA include health insurance?

No, the ETA does not include health insurance for your visit — arrange this separately before you travel.