Saudi Arabia has launched an Electronic Travel Authorization, known as an ETA, for citizens of the United Kingdom. According to the Saudi Press Agency, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs introduced the service to ease travel to the Kingdom as part of long-standing ties between the two countries.
The authorization is significant for British pilgrims, because it can be used to perform Umrah as long as the visit falls outside the official Hajj season.
Key features of the ETA
The ETA allows UK citizens to enter Saudi Arabia with multiple entries and to stay for up to 180 days, either in one continuous visit or across several trips within one year. It covers tourism, business and short-term study.
The authorization does not cover work, residence or Hajj. According to the Council of British Hajjis, Umrah continues to follow the tourism route outside the Hajj season, exactly as it does on the standard tourist eVisa, while Hajj always requires its own dedicated visa.
The official government fee is 50 Saudi Riyals and is non-refundable once an application is submitted. Applications are made online through the unified Saudi visa platform. Saudi authorities presented the step as a continuation of reciprocal arrangements extended to Saudi citizens travelling in the other direction.
What it means for British pilgrims
For UK-based Muslims, the ETA offers a simpler and more flexible route to the holy cities during most of the year. The 180-day allowance and multiple-entry format mean a pilgrim can perform Umrah and return again within the same authorization period, subject to the total-stay rules.
The change reflects a wider trend. In recent months the Kingdom has also introduced a one-year multiple-entry Umrah visa and a bundled Tourist Package Visa, all aimed at widening access under Vision 2030. British travellers now have several entry options, and should choose the one that best fits their plans.
Pilgrims are reminded that the ETA cannot be used to perform Hajj. Anyone intending to perform Hajj must obtain the proper Hajj visa through approved operators and the official Nusuk Hajj platform.
Practical tips before applying
British pilgrims planning Umrah on the ETA should confirm that their travel dates fall outside the Hajj season, which each year runs from the start of Dhul Qadah to the middle of Dhul Hijjah. They should apply through the official platform only, and avoid unofficial websites that may charge inflated fees.
Once in the Kingdom, pilgrims should book their Umrah permit and any Rawdah visit through the Nusuk app, as digital permits are now required. Travellers should also ensure their passport has sufficient validity, keep proof of accommodation and return travel, and check current vaccination requirements before departure.