How To Travel To Umrah By Car From The UAE

Umrah is a sacred journey for followers of Islam, performed in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah. Saudi Arabia continues to welcome pilgrims from across the world to take part in this religious act.

For people living in the UAE, travelling to Umrah by road is a popular and memorable option. The UAE shares borders with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), connected by modern highways, making it possible to drive directly to Saudi Arabia in your vehicle.

If you are planning to travel to Umrah from the UAE by car, here is the complete and updated guide covering visa rules, costs, driving requirements, and road trip tips.

How To Travel To Umrah In Your Car From The UAE?

Driving to Umrah requires planning, especially concerning visa formalities, travel costs, and entry regulations.

What Are The Visa Requirements?

• An Umrah visa is required for non-Saudi residents intending to perform Umrah.
• The visa is issued as an e-visa by Saudi authorities and allows movement between Makkah, Madinah, and other Saudi cities during its validity.
• Applications must be made through a licensed Umrah travel operator.
• For road travel, both GCC citizens and UAE expatriate residents are usually required to travel in a group under their tour operator’s supervision.

What Are The Alternative Entry Options?

In recent years, certain travellers holding a Saudi tourist eVisa can also perform Umrah without applying for a separate Umrah visa. Check with your travel operator for eligibility.

What Is The Visa Validity?

• The Umrah visa is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance.
• You must enter Saudi Arabia and complete your pilgrimage within this period.

What Are The Documents Required?

To apply for an Umrah visa, you will need:

• Copy of passport (valid for at least six months)
• Recent passport-sized photograph
• UAE residence visa copy (for expatriates)

If you are using a tourist eVisa, the required documents may vary.

What Are The Approximate Visa Costs In Umrah?

• Umrah visa fee: Around AED 350–450 (varies by operator)
• Saudi tourist eVisa: Around AED 450–500
• Border crossing fee: Usually included in insurance cost
• Saudi car insurance: AED 150–300, depending on duration and coverage

What Is The Distance and Travel Time?

• Driving from the UAE to Makkah takes around 14–15 hours in normal conditions.
• During busy pilgrimage seasons or weekends, the trip may extend to 16–18 hours.

You will cross:

1. Al Ghuwaifat Border (UAE side)
2. Al Batha Border (Saudi side)

What Are The Border Crossing Tips?

• Best time to travel: Early morning or late evening to avoid long queues.
• Have all documents ready before reaching the counter.
• Ensure your car insurance certificate lists Saudi Arabia coverage.
• Carry enough local currency for small expenses during the trip.

What Are The Driving Requirements For Travelling Outside the UAE?

1. Tourism Certificate (RTA) – Required for expatriates with Dubai-registered cars. Not needed for UAE or GCC citizens.
2. Clearance Certificate (RTA) – If the car is not registered in your name, you must obtain this document to confirm there are no mortgages or unpaid fines.
3. Valid Car Insurance – Must cover Saudi Arabia. Purchase new coverage if your current one expires during the trip.
4. Vehicle Check – Long-distance travel requires reliable tyres, brakes, and fluids.

International Driving Licence – Not required for GCC citizens, but recommended for expatriates for smoother travel.

What Are The Safety and Road Conditions?

• UAE–Saudi highways are generally in good condition.
• Rest stops, fuel stations, and food outlets are available along the route, especially on the Riyadh–Makkah stretch.
• Carry bottled water, snacks, and emergency supplies.

What Are The Road Trip Essentials Checklist To Travel To Umrah?

• Passport with a valid visa/eVisa
• UAE driving licence (and international licence if applicable)
• Vehicle registration card (Mulkiya)
• Car insurance covering Saudi Arabia
• Cash in Saudi riyals
• Emergency kit (spare tyre, jack, torch, first aid kit)
• Mobile phone charger and navigation device

While flying from the UAE to Saudi Arabia takes only 1–2 hours, driving offers flexibility and a unique road experience. If your car is not suitable for such trips, consider exploring used cars for sale in the UAE that are well-suited for long-distance travel. With proper preparation, you can enjoy a safe, comfortable, and spiritually fulfilling road journey to Umrah.

Find the best used cars for sale in the UAE.

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