The process of performing Umrah has been radically transformed by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah under Saudi Vision 2030. Gone are the days when pilgrims were locked into overpriced group packages with no flexibility.
In 2026, Bangladeshi citizens have multiple pathways to perform Umrah: the official Nusuk Umrah Visa, the Saudi Tourist eVisa (for eligible travelers), and the Visa on Arrival route. This guide breaks down the realistic costs in BDT and Saudi Riyal (SAR), hotel bookings, and Haramain train logistics.
Umrah Visa vs. 1-Year Multiple Entry Tourist Visa
| Feature | Official Umrah Visa | 1-Year Multiple Entry Tourist Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | All Bangladeshi passport holders | Holders of valid US, UK, or Schengen visas OR valid GCC residency |
| Duration of Stay | Up to 90 Days single entry | Up to 90 Days per visit (multiple entries across 365 days) |
| Umrah Privileges | Full Umrah access via Nusuk app | Full Umrah access + tourism throughout Saudi Arabia |
| Permitted Ports | Any international airport (JED, MED, RUH, DMM) | Any airport, land border, or seaport |
| Approx Cost (SAR) | ~350 – 450 SAR (plus agency fee) | ~395 SAR (~$105 USD / 13,000 BDT) including insurance |
Step-by-Step DIY Umrah: Saving 40% on Costs
1. Book Return Flights: Fly directly to Jeddah (King Abdulaziz International Airport) or Madinah (Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz Airport) via Saudia, Biman Bangladesh, flynas, or Gulf carriers.
2. Book Hotels in Makkah & Madinah: Reserve verified hotels through online booking engines. Hotels within walking distance of the Haram (Clock Tower complex, Ajyad, or Ibrahim Khalil Road) offer immense convenience.
3. Book the Haramain High-Speed Railway: Travel between Jeddah Airport, Makkah, and Madinah at 300 km/h in under 2 hours. Tickets are booked via sar.hhr.sa for ~50 to 150 SAR.
4. Register on the Nusuk App: Download the official Nusuk App (iOS / Android), input your visa number, and reserve your official time slot for Umrah and the Rawdah Sharif visit in Madinah.
Total Budget Breakdown for a 10-Day DIY Umrah (from Bangladesh)
- Visa & Health Insurance: BDT 13,000 – 16,000
- Round-Trip Airfare (Dhaka – Jeddah / Madinah – Dhaka): BDT 65,000 – 85,000
- Hotel Accommodation (10 nights, twin-share basis): BDT 35,000 – 60,000
- Haramain Train & Local Transport: BDT 8,000 – 12,000
- Daily Food & Sundries: BDT 15,000 – 20,000
- Total Realistic Estimate: BDT 1,35,000 – 1,80,000 per person (compared to BDT 2,40,000+ charged by package agencies).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can women perform Umrah without a Mahram?
Yes. The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah officially permits women of all ages to perform Umrah without a male guardian (Mahram).
Can Bangladeshi expats living in UAE, Qatar, or Saudi apply for their families?
Yes. GCC residents can issue personal visit visas for first-degree relatives through the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) platform, allowing families to visit and perform Umrah together.