You’ll discover the year 2026 usher in new travel requirements for UK pilgrims who are preparing their Umrah journey. Saudi Arabia is always updating what they need, keeping abreast of changes will help to ensure a hassle-free Hajj that does not bring with it any delays or problems. Whether you book through a professional company or on your own, making sense of these current rules is essential to know before arriving.
Current Vaccine Requirements (2026)
COVID-19 Vaccination Status
You’ll want to know that Saudi Arabia does not require Umrah pilgrims to show proof of a COVID-19 vaccination in 2026. However, you need to make sure that your general health is still very good because they do have the ability to use health screening at the airports if necessary.
You’ll discover that a lot of Umrah packages will now have optional health insurance, which can protect you if you become sick during your trip. Besides, though Saudi doesn’t ask for these records in normal times, your best travel agency will always tell you to bring copies of your vaccination records anyway, as some airlines want them for their own protocols.
Other Recommended Vaccinations
Don’t miss routine vaccinations you may have had as a child or during pregnancy before travelling to Saudi Arabia. Make sure your MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), tetanus, and polio jabs are up to date.
What you’ll find, though, is the recommendation for meningococcal vaccination, particularly during Hajj when millions flock to the holy cities and congregate in very close quarters.
You need to see your GP a minimum of six weeks before you go for information on the status of yellow fever vaccinations, though Saudi Arabia doesn’t deny entry if you aren’t vaccinated against yellow fever. Your ideal travel agent can recommend which vaccinations are appropriate for your specific health needs.
Vaccinations and Travel Formalities Requirements for UK Pilgrims
Tourist Travel Formalities vs. Umrah Travel Formalities
You need to know the differences between Saudi Arabia’s tourist Travel Formalities and Umrah-specific Travel Formalities. Most UK pilgrims get the Umrah Travel Formalities, which is explicit in restricting its entry conditions solely for religious visits. This Travel Formalities is entirely separate from your normal tourist Travel Formalities and often has different processing times and criteria.
Follow up your Umrah Travel Formalities application through your sponsor, which will be either your selected Umrah packages provider or a licensed travel agency. This isn’t a Travel Formalities you can receive independently; you need to have a sponsor in the form of a licensed Saudi tour operator or religious organisation.
Documents Required for Travel Formalities Application
You will need:
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A current, valid British passport (valid for at least six months from your return date)
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A recent Saudi-sized photograph
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Confirmed accommodation details (usually provided when travelling through a reputable Umrah package)
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Return flight reservation
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Proof of funds to support yourself during your stay
Your top travel agency takes care of the majority of the coordination, but you are responsible for ensuring that your personal information is correct.
Processing Timeline and Fees
Your process should start quite early, around 8–12 weeks before you expect to fly. Depending on seasonal demand, processing times can vary, with high seasons such as Ramadan and summer holidays often causing delays. A better travel management company strategically organises your entries to prevent backlogs.
Travel Formalities fees for UK pilgrims generally range from £80 to £150, depending on how quickly the Travel Formalities needs processing. Most Umrah packages include Travel Formalities fees in their overall cost, making budgeting much easier.
Health Insurance and Health Services
Mandatory Travel Insurance Considerations
You will need comprehensive travel insurance before going, even if it’s not a legal requirement in Saudi Arabia. You’ll see that most respected Umrah packages include coverage for travel insurance.
Your top travel agency will provide insurance for medical emergencies, hospital stays, and emergency repatriation. You need to check if your insurance policy covers diseases connected with meningitis, as outbreaks can occur during peak pilgrimage periods.
Health Declaration Forms
You can’t avoid health screening disclosures now imposed at Saudi entry points in 2026. Any serious health conditions, infectious diseases, or medication you’re carrying must be declared. Your travel agency prepares you for these declarations and guides you on how to complete them properly.
If you take prescribed medicines on a daily basis, it’s recommended that you bring a copy of your English-translated medical records. These documents may need to be presented at customs, as Saudi Arabia has strict rules around certain pharmaceuticals.
Entry Requirements and Documentation
Passport and Travel Document Requirements
You should ensure that your UK passport has at least six months of validity from your Umrah dates and enough blank pages for entry stamps and Travel Formalitiess. Your travel agency usually confirms this before applying for your Travel Formalities to avoid any surprises.
An International Certificate of Vaccination is also useful if you’ve received any recommended vaccines in recent years.
Letter of Invitation and Sponsorship
You can’t travel to Saudi Arabia for Umrah without valid sponsorship papers. Check with your Umrah packages provider that they will supply the official letter of invitation from their Saudi partners. This document proves the authentic purpose of your pilgrimage and is essential.
You will receive this letter once your booking is approved, and a reputable travel agency handles all sponsor communications on your behalf.
Airport Operations and Entry Procedures
What to Expect Upon Arrival
You may be subject to more stringent screening processes at Saudi airports. This includes passport control, health screening stations, and customs inspections. Keep all documents organised and easily accessible.
If you carry more than £10,000 in cash or equivalent, you must declare it. It’s recommended to keep your Travel Formalities letter, passport, and immunisation records with you on arrival.
Banned Items and Customs Restrictions
You cannot bring alcohol, pork products, or certain publications into Saudi Arabia. Items containing nudity or promoting anything other than Islam are also prohibited.
Many electronic items are unrestricted, but expensive cameras or laptops should be registered if you plan to bring them back to the UK unchanged.
Last-Minute Preparations for Your 2026 Umrah Trip
It’s important to start planning early to secure competitive Umrah packages. Completing paperwork months in advance reduces last-minute stress.
You should also check that your chosen service provider regularly updates its information, as Saudi regulations continue to change. A reliable travel agent stays informed of all 2026 requirements and supports you throughout your journey, ensuring a smooth and meaningful pilgrimage without administrative headaches.
