New Nusuk Umrah service unveiled to streamline visas and travel for international pilgrims
More than 1.2 million pilgrims arrive since June under enhanced services
DUBAI – Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has launched a new digital service, Nusuk Umrah, enabling Muslims outside the Kingdom to apply directly for Umrah visas and book their pilgrimage services online.
The new service removes the need for intermediaries and is designed to enrich the pilgrim experience.
Nusuk Umrah
Pilgrims using the platform can either select from integrated packages or customise their journey by booking individual services such as accommodation, transportation, cultural tours, and support facilities. The system is available in seven languages and connects seamlessly with relevant government portals, offering multiple payment options for added convenience.
The Ministry highlighted that Nusuk Umrah complements existing options available through accredited agents, but offers greater personalisation and direct access. The initiative forms part of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 strategy to expand religious tourism and enhance the quality of services provided to millions of visitors each year.
What does it offer?
The platform covers the entire Umrah process, from visa application to issuance, while giving pilgrims flexibility in planning their itineraries. With integrated support services, the experience has been designed to be smoother, more transparent, and adaptable to individual needs.
Nusuk Umrah is part of a broader set of initiatives launched this year to improve both safety and comfort. More than 89 new programmes have been introduced, ranging from smart safety bracelets for children and the elderly, to AI-driven crowd management systems, infrastructure upgrades in Madinah, and multilingual service centres at the Prophet’s Mosque.
استخدم جميع خدمات تطبيق نسك بحرية ودون استهلاك من باقة الإنترنت، على جميع الشبكات في المملكة:
— Nusuk - نسُك (@MyNusuk) August 6, 2025
موبايلي، زين، STC@stc_ksa @ZainKSA @Mobily
مجانًا وبالكامل. pic.twitter.com/9b66THGMy2
The Ministry has also tightened regulations on accommodation. Since June 10, no Umrah visa can be issued without confirmed hotel bookings registered through the “Nusuk Masar” platform, a measure aimed at preventing fraud and overbooking while safeguarding pilgrims’ rights.
How is it integrated?
Nusuk Umrah is linked with the unified Nusuk platform, which already handles a wide array of services including permit applications, scheduling, and educational resources for pilgrims. By aligning the new Umrah service with existing digital systems, the Ministry seeks to ensure consistency across all stages of the journey.
The requirement for Umrah companies and international travel agents to finalise contracts ahead of the season has also been strictly enforced. More than 4,200 agreements were completed before the June 10 deadline, covering accommodation, transport, and local support.
Over 1.2 Million Arrive for Umrah Since Start of Season.https://t.co/eCAHg62j9c#SPAGOV pic.twitter.com/j5um4FL5tZ
— SPAENG (@Spa_Eng) July 31, 2025
The impact of these reforms is already being seen. Since the start of the 2025 Umrah season on 11 June, Saudi Arabia has welcomed more than 1.2 million pilgrims from 109 countries, representing a 30 percent increase compared with the same period last year. Visa issuance has also risen by 27 percent, reflecting higher demand and greater efficiency in processing applications.