Umrah is more than just a journey—it’s a deeply spiritual experience that purifies the soul and strengthens one’s connection with Allah.
When someone returns from Umrah, you can see peace and joy reflected on their face. It’s a sacred trip that leaves a lifetime of memories and gratitude.
If you’re living in the UAE, performing Umrah has become easier than ever. With the right guidance and travel support, you can embark on this blessed journey with peace of mind.
In this comprehensive guide by Odit Travels, we’ll walk you through:
✅ What is Umrah and who can perform it
✅ How to get an Umrah Visa from Dubai or anywhere in the UAE
✅ Best time to perform Umrah
✅ Travel options (by air, car, or bus)
✅ Packing list, tips, and FAQs
🕋 What Is Umrah?
Umrah is a non-obligatory pilgrimage to the holy city of Makkah that can be performed at any time of the year.
During Umrah, Muslims visit the Kaaba, perform specific rituals, and seek forgiveness and blessings from Allah.
While Hajj can only be performed during Dhul Hijjah and is one of Islam’s five pillars, Umrah can be performed anytime—it’s shorter, simpler, and highly rewarding.
Anyone who is physically and financially able can perform Umrah.
👥 Who Can Perform Umrah from the UAE?
All Muslims living in the UAE—whether citizens or residents—can perform Umrah with the right travel documents.
- UAE Citizens: Do not require a visa for Umrah.
- UAE Residents (Expatriates): Need a valid Umrah visa from UAE, which Odit Travels can arrange.
- Children: Can perform Umrah if accompanied by a parent or guardian.
- Women under 45: Must travel with a Mahram (husband, father, brother, or son).
- Women above 45: Can travel without a Mahram if part of an organized group and have a no-objection letter.
- Elderly Travelers: Should get medical clearance and travel with support if needed.
🕌 Best Time to Perform Umrah in 2025
Though Umrah can be performed anytime, certain seasons are more comfortable and spiritually rewarding.
🌤 November to March (Cool Season)
The best time for Umrah due to pleasant weather (15°C–25°C). Ideal for families and elderly pilgrims.
🌙 Ramadan (Peak Season)
Performing Umrah during Ramadan carries immense spiritual rewards. However, flights and hotels fill up quickly and prices rise—book early with Odit Travels for the best packages.
🏖 School Holidays
Many UAE families perform Umrah during school breaks. Keep in mind that summer months (June–September) can be very hot in Saudi Arabia.
✈️ How to Travel from UAE to Saudi Arabia for Umrah
There are three main ways to travel for Umrah from the UAE: by air, car, or bus.
1️⃣ By Air – The Fastest Way to Perform Umrah
Flying is the most convenient option for most UAE residents.
Main Airports:
- Jeddah (King Abdulaziz International Airport) – Closest to Makkah (1.5-hour drive).
- Medina (Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz Airport) – Ideal if you plan to visit the Prophet’s Mosque first.
Flight Duration:
- Dubai → Jeddah: ~3 hours
- Dubai → Medina: ~3.5–4 hours
Required Documents:
- Passport (valid 6+ months)
- Umrah visa
- Return flight ticket
- Hotel booking confirmation
- Vaccination certificates
Popular Airlines: Emirates, Flydubai, Air Arabia, Saudia, Flynas, Etihad Airways
✳️ Pro Tip: Book early for Ramadan or winter months to get the best fares.
2️⃣ By Car – The Road to Spiritual Serenity
If you enjoy long drives, traveling by car lets you experience the scenic desert routes.
The trip from the UAE to Makkah takes about 12–18 hours, depending on your starting point.
Required Documents:
- Valid UAE driving license
- Vehicle registration (Mulkiya)
- Vehicle insurance valid in Saudi Arabia
- Umrah visa
- Emirates ID & Passport
Travel Tips:
- Pay the AED 30 exit fee per person at the border.
- Expect fingerprint scanning upon Saudi entry.
- Purchase temporary car insurance if needed.
- Keep snacks, water, and emergency items ready.
3️⃣ By Bus – The Most Budget-Friendly Option
Bus travel is popular for group Umrah packages. The journey from Dubai to Makkah takes about 20–22 hours, with ticket prices between AED 220–400.
Documents Needed:
- Passport & Umrah visa
- Emirates ID
- Vaccination certificates
- Passport-sized photos
Bus Travel Tips:
- Book tickets in advance (especially during Ramadan).
- Carry light snacks and a power bank.
- Keep documents in an accessible pouch.
- Choose reputable transport operators for comfort and safety.
📜 How to Apply for an Umrah Visa from UAE
At Odit Travels, we simplify the entire Umrah visa process for UAE residents.
Requirements for Umrah Visa:
- Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- Passport-size photos (white background)
- UAE residence visa copy
- Vaccination certificate (Meningitis required)
We handle the submission and processing for you—making your preparation stress-free.
📅 Apply at least 2–3 weeks before your travel date.
🙏 Step-by-Step Umrah Rituals
- Make Niyyah (Intention) and enter Ihram.
- Recite the Talbiyah:
“Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik…” - Tawaf: Circle the Kaaba seven times.
- Sa’i: Walk between Safa and Marwah seven times.
- Shave or Trim Hair:
- Men: Shave or trim the entire head.
- Women: Cut a fingertip-length from each side.
- Exit Ihram and reflect on your spiritual renewal.
🎒 Umrah Packing Checklist for UAE Pilgrims
Here’s your essential Umrah travel checklist:
✅ Passport, visa & Emirates ID
✅ Ihram garments
✅ Unscented toiletries
✅ Prayer mat & Qur’an
✅ Personal medicines
✅ Comfortable footwear
✅ Power bank
✅ Saudi Riyals (cash)
✅ Travel pouch for slippers
✅ Snacks & reusable water bottle
⚖️ Important Rules During Umrah
- Avoid perfume and scented items during Ihram.
- Men should not cover their heads.
- Women must wear modest clothing and hijab, but not a face veil.
- Avoid selfies or unnecessary videos inside the mosque.
- Maintain peace, patience, and continuous dhikr (remembrance of Allah).
💬 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I perform Umrah with a Saudi tourist visa?
No. You must have a valid Umrah visa.
2. Can non-GCC residents in the UAE perform Umrah?
Yes, with a valid UAE residence visa and an Umrah visa.
3. Can women travel alone for Umrah?
Women above 45 can travel with a certified group and NOC from their Mahram.
4. Are children allowed on Umrah visas?
Yes, children can perform Umrah with their guardians.
5. Can I travel to other cities on an Umrah visa?
No, the Umrah visa only allows travel to Makkah and Madinah.
🌟 Plan Your Blessed Journey with Odit Travels
At Odit Travels, we ensure your Umrah experience is peaceful, organized, and spiritually fulfilling.
Our team provides complete Umrah assistance — from visa processing to flight and hotel booking, transport, and group packages.
📞 Contact Odit Travels today to begin your Umrah journey from the UAE.
Let us handle the details while you focus on your worship.
Odit Travels – Your Trusted Partner for Umrah Packages from UAE.
