Umrah visas now require approved hotel booking via Nusuk Masar
Image: AFP via Getty Images
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announced that, starting from June 10 (14 Dhu al-Hijjah 1446 AH), international pilgrims seeking Umrah visas must first secure and document their accommodation contracts through the kingdom's digital platform, Nusuk Masar.
According to a statement published by the
All housing agreements must be electronically documented on the Nusuk Masar platform prior to the issuance of any Umrah visa.
The ministry said the move is designed to protect pilgrims' rights, raise service standards, and ensure high-quality, licensed accommodations throughout the pilgrimage. 'The new decision aims to enhance the professionalism of service delivery, improve the experience for both visitors and Umrah performers, and guarantee that pilgrims stay in licensed, compliant facilities,' the statement said.
The policy introduces tighter regulatory oversight to prevent housing-related fraud and address ongoing concerns about overbooking and accommodation standards.
Service providers have been urged to comply promptly, with the ministry warning that delays or failures in documentation could result in visa processing issues or penalties.
Developed in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, the directive aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to modernize and expand the kingdom's religious tourism sector. By leveraging digital tools like Nusuk Masar, the initiative is expected to streamline the Umrah journey, from booking to accommodation and permits.
The Nusuk Masar platform acts as a centralised gateway for international pilgrims, offering multilingual educational resources and services to manage bookings and permits online.
Programme enhanced for Umrah season
Separately, the Presidency of the Two Holy Mosques is preparing to enhance its programme for the upcoming Umrah season through a series of initiatives aimed at welcoming pilgrims, worshippers, and visitors while raising awareness about the rituals.
The presidency stated that centers for responding to religious inquiries have been expanded across 10 sites inside and outside the Grand Mosque in Makkah, in addition to four dedicated offices for phone-based inquiries. These services are staffed by 62 participating scholars — including judges and university faculty members — available around the clock.
The presidency also plans to enrich the devotional environment through religious and scholarly programs throughout the season. It is actively recruiting volunteers to serve in both the Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Prophet's Mosque in Madinah.
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