Saudi Arabia Enforces New Umrah Visa Policy for International Pilgrims

Riyadh: The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has introduced a new mandatory policy for international Umrah pilgrims, effective from June 10, 2025 (14 Dhul-Hijjah 1446 AH). According to the latest announcement, Umrah visas will now only be issued if pilgrims’ accommodation is registered through the Nusuk Masar digital platform.

Under the new guidelines, all Umrah service providers, international agents, and companies are required to arrange accommodations for pilgrims exclusively in hotels that are officially licensed by the Saudi Ministry of Tourism. Complete booking details must be uploaded to the Nusuk Masar platform.

The ministry has strictly warned that any failure to comply with this policy could result in visa delays, service interruptions, or regulatory penalties.

This decision is part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, aimed at modernising the religious tourism sector through the use of digital technology and by ensuring high-quality services for pilgrims from around the world.

The Nusuk Masar platform has now become the central digital gateway for Umrah pilgrims, allowing them to manage visa applications, accommodation bookings, and access educational resources in multiple languages.