What Rules Do Umrah Tourists Have to Follow in Saudi Arabia?
Visiting Saudi Arabia for Umrah is a spiritually significant journey for millions of Muslims worldwide. To ensure a peaceful, safe, and respectful experience, Umrah pilgrims must follow rules Saudi Arabia’s regulations and cultural guidelines. These laws help maintain the pilgrimage’s sanctity and ensure all visitors’ comfort and safety. This guide covers the key rules and customs that Umrah pilgrims need to know.
Visa Requirements and Entry Points
Umrah Visa: All international pilgrims must have a valid Umrah visa or e-visa specifically for pilgrimage purposes. This visa allows a limited stay for Umrah and does not permit work or residency.
Entry Points: Umrah travelers must enter Saudi Arabia through designated airports—Jeddah, Madinah, Yanbu, or Taif. Travelers on certain code-shared flights operated by non-Saudi carriers cannot use Riyadh or Dammam as entry points.
Transportation Restrictions
Domestic Flight Requirement: If entering through Riyadh or Dammam due to flight limitations, Umrah pilgrims must continue to Jeddah or Madinah on domestic flights.
Prohibition on Local Bus Usage: Currently, Umrah pilgrims are not allowed to use local bus services within Saudi Arabia. Instead, pilgrims are encouraged to arrange other forms of transport, such as private car services, group shuttles, or bullate trains, often organized through travel agencies or provided by licensed companies in Saudi Arabia.
Respect for Prayer Times and Sharia Law
- Saudi Arabia operates under Sharia law, and religious observances are strictly enforced. During the five daily prayers, public spaces may close temporarily, and people are expected to pause activities.
- Umrah pilgrims should be mindful of the Muttawa (religious police) who enforce Islamic values, especially during prayer times. While they don’t usually approach tourists, respecting prayer practices is essential.
Public Decorum and Dress Code
Modest Attire: All visitors, including Umrah pilgrims, must dress conservatively. Men should wear clothing that covers the knees, while women are encouraged to wear an abaya (a long robe) or loose clothing. While wearing a headscarf is not strictly required for foreign women outside religious sites, it is strongly recommended, especially in conservative areas.
Pilgrim Attire: During Umrah, male pilgrims wear two seamless white cloths called Ihram, symbolizing purity, while women wear simple, modest attire without covering the face.
Prohibited Items and Substances
Alcohol and Drugs: The possession, consumption, and trafficking of alcohol and narcotics are strictly prohibited. Violations carry severe penalties, including the death penalty for drug-related offenses.
Pork Products and Pornography: Pork products and any form of explicit material, including digital media, are illegal. Customs officers may check devices; prohibited items can lead to detention or deportation.
Guidelines for Behavior and Photography
Public Decorum: Public displays of affection are not acceptable, and inappropriate behavior may lead to fines or deportation.
Photography Restrictions: Taking photos of military sites, government buildings, or locals without permission is illegal. When visiting holy sites, be mindful of privacy and ask permission before photographing people or sensitive areas.
Customs and Cultural Sensitivity
Respect for Islamic Practices: As Saudi Arabia is an Islamic nation, it’s important to avoid actions considered offensive to Islamic values. Criticizing Islam, the royal family, or Saudi cultural practices—even online—can lead to severe penalties, including deportation.
Avoid Eating or Drinking Publicly During Ramadan: If Umrah coincides with Ramadan, pilgrims should not eat, drink, or smoke in public during daylight hours out of respect for those fasting.
Requirements for Personal Identification
Pilgrims must carry their passports or a copy of their ID at all times. Authorities may request identification at any point, particularly at security checkpoints around holy sites and public areas.
Important Rules for Female Pilgrims
Dress Code: Women must dress modestly in public, usually in an abaya. They are not required to wear a headscarf unless they enter a mosque, though some areas may encourage it.
Gender Segregation: Many public spaces, including parks, waiting areas, and restaurants, maintain gender-segregated sections. Women should avoid close interaction with unrelated men in public.
Public Swimming and Changing Rooms: Public swimming and changing areas for women are limited. Modest swimwear may be allowed at certain resorts, but public swimming for women is generally restricted.
Health and Safety Protocols
Vaccination Requirements: Umrah travelers must have certain vaccinations, such as for meningitis, as part of health protocols. During the COVID-19 pandemic, additional restrictions may apply, so it’s wise to check with relevant authorities for updated health requirements.
Safety in Crowds: The holy sites, particularly around the Kaaba in Makkah, are densely crowded. It’s essential to stay with your group, keep personal items secure, and be cautious of safety guidelines during peak pilgrimage times.
Conclusion
Performing Umrah is a rewarding experience that requires not only spiritual readiness but also an understanding of the host country’s laws and customs. By following these guidelines, Umrah pilgrims can have a fulfilling journey that respects Saudi Arabia’s cultural, religious, and legal expectations.
To ensure a smooth pilgrimage, consider consulting with a trusted travel agency that can provide support with visas, transport, and accommodations. A reputable agency familiar with Saudi regulations can help you focus on your spiritual journey without worrying about logistics.
NB: Please note that the rules and guidelines provided here are referenced from official and unofficial sources, including the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and other sites, to ensure accurate and up-to-date information for Umrah pilgrims.
