How to Apply for a Saudi Tourist Visa for US Citizens and Find the Best Umrah Travel Agency in the USA

Introduction

Travel to Saudi Arabia used to be complicated. Pilgrims would spend weeks dealing with paperwork, business travelers faced lengthy processes, and leisure tourists had very few options. That picture has changed. Today, the Saudi tourist visa for US citizens makes visiting the Kingdom straightforward and stress-free.

At the same time, religious travel remains central. For Muslims in America, finding the best Umrah travel agency USA can make the difference between a smooth, spiritual journey and a logistical nightmare. This guide covers both: how to get your visa and how to choose the right agency if your purpose is Umrah.

What is the Saudi Tourist Visa for US Citizens?

The Saudi tourist visa for US citizens is a major step forward in the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 tourism strategy. It allows Americans to enter the country for tourism, cultural exploration, and even short religious visits (except Hajj).

Key Details

• Validity: 1 year.

• Entries: Multiple.

• Stay per trip: Up to 90 days.

• Cost: About $117 USD (insurance included).

• Application method: 100% online.

This visa covers both leisure travelers and Muslims wishing to perform Umrah outside of Hajj season.

How to Apply

The process is simple compared to traditional visas.

1. Visit the Saudi eVisa portal.

2. Create an account and fill in your details.

3. Upload your passport photo and a copy of your passport.

4. Pay the fee online.

5. Download your visa approval.

Processing is quick — usually within minutes. Keep both a digital and printed copy.

Why Choose a Saudi Tourist Visa Instead of Umrah-Only Visa?

Here’s the advantage: a Saudi tourist visa for US citizens gives flexibility. You can perform Umrah but also visit other cities, archaeological sites, and modern attractions.

For example:

• Land in Jeddah, perform Umrah in Mecca.

• Spend a few days in Medina.

• Continue on to AlUla or Riyadh for sightseeing.

This freedom is why many Muslim Americans now prefer the tourist visa route.

Finding the Best Umrah Travel Agency USA

Even with an eVisa, religious travel takes planning. That’s where an Umrah travel agency comes in. The best Umrah travel agency USA will handle flights, hotels, ground transport, and guide services.

What to Look For

• Ministry Approval: Agency must be licensed by Saudi authorities.

• Experience: Check how many years they’ve been arranging pilgrimages.

• Packages: Look for flexible options (economy, premium, family).

• Customer Support: Availability before and during your trip.

• Reviews: Honest feedback from past travelers.

Benefits of Using an Agency

• Simplified visa assistance.

• Group discounts on flights/hotels.

• Organized transport between Mecca, Medina, and Jeddah.

• Local guides for first-time pilgrims.

Popular Umrah Agencies in the USA

While there are many, some of the best Umrah travel agencies USA include:

• Dar El Salam Travel – Known for luxury and premium services.

• Sara International Travel – Popular for budget-conscious packages.

• Adam Travel – Large network and reliable group packages.

• Falcon Travel – Specializes in family-oriented Umrah trips.

Always verify credentials before booking.

Combining Visa with Umrah Packages

Here’s where it gets interesting. Many US-based agencies now combine the Saudi tourist visa for US citizens with Umrah packages. That means you can:

• Get assistance in applying for the tourist visa.

• Secure accommodation in Mecca and Medina.

• Add sightseeing options in cities like Riyadh or AlUla.

This mix of religious and cultural tourism is becoming increasingly popular.

Practical Tips for US Pilgrims

• Book early: Hotels near Haram fill fast, especially during Ramadan.

• Stay connected: Local SIM cards are cheap and essential.

• Dress code: White ihram for men, modest clothing for women.

• Currency: 1 USD = ~3.75 Saudi Riyals (SAR).

Beyond Umrah: Exploring Saudi Arabia

Even if your main goal is pilgrimage, consider extending your trip:

• Riyadh: Visit the National Museum and Diriyah.

• Jeddah: Explore historic Al-Balad and Red Sea beaches.

• AlUla: Tour Madain Salih, Saudi’s Petra-like wonder.

• Abha: Escape into the mountains for a cool climate.

The Saudi tourist visa for US citizens allows these additions without extra paperwork.

The Future of Pilgrimage Tourism

Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in religious tourism. The expansion of Mecca’s Grand Mosque, high-speed trains linking Jeddah to Mecca and Medina, and luxury hotels are all part of the plan.

For US Muslims, this means smoother travel, better infrastructure, and more affordable packages through agencies.

Conclusion

The Saudi tourist visa for US citizens is the gateway to both pilgrimage and exploration. By working with the best Umrah travel agency USA, American Muslims can combine spiritual fulfillment with cultural discovery.

Apply online, book with a trusted agency, and open yourself to a Saudi journey that blends faith, history, and modern hospitality.