As of June 2025, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has officially implemented new Umrah visa rules for international pilgrims. If you’re planning your pilgrimage this year, it’s crucial to understand these updated requirements, especially the mandatory hotel booking policy through the official Nusuk Masar platform.
This comprehensive guide for readers of The Muslim Traveler blog answers all your questions in a clear and informative way. Whether you’re a first-time pilgrim or returning for a spiritual renewal, here’s what you need to know about the latest Umrah visa rules.
What Are the New Umrah Visa Rules for 2025?
The most important change under the 2025 Umrah visa rules is that all Umrah visa applicants must book their accommodation in advance through the official Nusuk Masar platform before their visa can be issued.
This requirement is part of a broader initiative by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to prevent fraud, regulate accommodations, and improve the overall pilgrim experience in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals.
In short: no confirmed hotel booking on Nusuk, no Umrah visa.
Who Needs to Book Hotels Through Nusuk?
The new rule only applies to those applying for an official Umrah visa (usually via a travel agent or tour operator). Here’s a breakdown:
✅ Must book through Nusuk:
- Travelers applying for a traditional Umrah visa
- Group bookings via Umrah tour operators
- Any application filed under the “Umrah visa” category
❌ Not required to book through Nusuk:
- Tourists visiting Saudi Arabia on a tourist visa (including eVisa or visa waiver)
- Transit travelers
- Visa waiver travelers (e.g., UK citizens using EVW)
- Independent travelers performing DIY Umrah using a tourist visa
Why Did Saudi Arabia Enforce This Rule?
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah introduced this rule to address ongoing challenges and improve the experience for pilgrims. Some of the core reasons include:
- Preventing fraud and speculative applications that previously disrupted quota systems
- Eliminating fake hotel bookings and scams by unauthorized agents
- Ensuring better accommodation standards by mandating the use of Ministry-approved hotels
- Improving planning, crowd control, and security across Makkah and Madinah
- Supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals for transforming religious tourism
How to Book Your Hotel on Nusuk Masar
Follow these steps to fulfill the hotel booking requirement under the 2025 Umrah visa rules:
- Visit the official Nusuk platform: Go to www.nusuk.sa and choose the “Masar” section.
- Browse Ministry-approved hotels: These are licensed by the Ministry of Tourism and specifically authorized for Umrah pilgrims.
- Book your stay: Select your dates, guest count, and room type, then complete the payment.
- Save your confirmation: Your visa application will require the official booking document. Only bookings from Nusuk are accepted—third-party websites (like Booking.com or Agoda) are not recognized.
What Happens If You Don’t Book Through Nusuk?
According to the updated Umrah visa rules, if your visa application does not include a verified Nusuk hotel booking, it will be automatically rejected.
This applies to all Umrah visa holders, regardless of nationality, including those applying through agents or in groups. Bookings made via other platforms or informal agents will not meet the visa requirements.
Benefits of Early Booking Through Nusuk
With millions expected to perform Umrah in 2025, early preparation offers many advantages:
- Guaranteed visa approval (if all other documents are valid)
- Better hotel rates and availability
- Proximity to the Haramain (Masjid al-Haram and Masjid an-Nabawi)
- Access to exclusive transport, tour, and Ziyarah services
- Peace of mind and protection from scams
Using a Tourist Visa for Umrah in 2025
Many pilgrims are opting to perform Umrah using Saudi Arabia’s tourist visa, which is available to citizens of 60+ countries, including the US, UK, Canada, and EU nations.
If you’re using a tourist visa:
- You do not need to book through Nusuk
- You can choose any hotel or accommodation
- You can enter via any major international airport (subject to airline and visa regulations)
- You can perform Umrah without needing a specific permit
However, if you’re unsure which visa is best for your situation, consult your nearest licensed Umrah agency or the official Ministry of Hajj and Umrah website.
Travel Requirements and Airport Rules
According to Saudia (Saudi Airlines):
- Umrah visa holders must fly into Jeddah, Madinah, Yanbu, or Taif. You cannot enter through Riyadh or Dammam unless continuing on a domestic flight with a national carrier.
- Tourist visa holders can arrive via any international airport.
- Passports must be valid for at least 6 months.
- Travelers under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian.
Common Questions About Umrah Visa Rules
Is the Nusuk hotel booking mandatory for everyone?
No. It’s only required for pilgrims applying for an official Umrah visa. Tourist visa holders are exempt.
Can I use Booking.com or other platforms instead of Nusuk?
No. Visa applications with hotel bookings from third-party platforms will be rejected. Only Nusuk Masar bookings are accepted.
Can women travel for Umrah without a mahram?
Yes, but only women over 45 can travel in groups without a mahram. Women under 45 must be accompanied.
Is there a medical fitness certificate required?
Yes. Pilgrims over the age of 60 must submit a fitness certificate.
Can the Umrah visa be extended beyond 90 days?
No. The current Umrah visa is valid for 90 days only and cannot be extended.
How can I verify if my Umrah agent is licensed?
Use the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah’s official website to check agency credentials and avoid scams.
Final Thoughts for Pilgrims in 2025
The new Umrah visa rules may feel overwhelming at first, but they are designed to protect pilgrims, improve service quality, and support your spiritual journey with greater transparency. If you’re traveling with an agent or group, make sure your hotel is booked through Nusuk. If you’re going solo on a tourist visa, you retain more flexibility.
Whether this is your first Umrah or one of many, staying informed and planning ahead ensures a smoother, more rewarding experience. As always, rely on verified sources, avoid unofficial agents, and make dua that Allah grants ease in your journey.
