New Changes To The 2025 Umrah Visa In Saudi Arabia Require Pilgrims To Follow Specific Updates For A More Efficient And Secure Journey

Published on October 4, 2025

Saudi Arabia’s new 2025 Umrah visa updates are designed to improve the safety, organization, and overall experience of the pilgrimage. By requiring confirmed hotel and transportation bookings, the authorities aim to ensure that every pilgrim has a structured, well-planned journey, minimizing overcrowding and logistical challenges. Additionally, the introduction of the Nusuk platform centralizes the entire process, making it easier for pilgrims to manage their travel arrangements digitally. These updates reflect Saudi Arabia’s commitment to enhancing the Umrah experience while maintaining safety and security for all.

Saudi Arabia has implemented significant updates to the Umrah visa process for 2025, aiming to improve the safety, efficiency, and overall organization of the pilgrimage. These changes, which took effect on June 10, 2025, introduce new requirements for pilgrims, including confirmed hotel and transportation bookings prior to visa application submission. With the introduction of these rules, tourists can no longer use regular tourist visas for performing Umrah, and there are new documentation requirements for those staying with relatives during the pilgrimage.

The Nusuk Platform: A Centralized Digital Solution

One of the most pivotal changes in the 2025 Umrah visa process is the role of the Nusuk platform. This platform is now an essential part of the visa application process. Pilgrims are required to submit their Umrah visa applications, book verified hotels, and arrange transportation through Nusuk. By centralizing these services into one platform, Saudi Arabia aims to simplify and streamline the process for pilgrims, ensuring they have a smooth and efficient journey.

The Nusuk platform is designed to offer more than just a booking service. It provides an end-to-end digital solution that helps pilgrims track and manage their itineraries with ease. This digital approach will also assist in reducing errors or confusion about arrangements and provide a more organized way to oversee all travel-related aspects of the pilgrimage.

Mandatory Hotel and Transportation Bookings

One of the most notable changes to the Umrah visa application process is the requirement for pilgrims to have confirmed hotel accommodations and verified transportation arrangements before they can apply for the visa. This change aims to ensure that all pilgrims have proper and secure travel plans in place prior to their journey, which will help manage the large influx of pilgrims during peak times.

All bookings must be made through the official Nusuk platform or through licensed travel agents who are authorized by the Saudi government. This regulation helps minimize the risks associated with fraudulent offers from unreliable providers and ensures that every pilgrim has a safe place to stay and reliable transportation while in Saudi Arabia. By taking this step, Saudi Arabia intends to reduce any logistical issues that may arise during the pilgrimage and create a more organized environment for both pilgrims and local authorities.

The End of the Tourist Visa for Umrah

Previously, tourists visiting Saudi Arabia could use their tourist visa to perform Umrah, but this is no longer the case. As part of the 2025 updates, Saudi Arabia has clarified that tourist visas are not valid for Umrah. Instead, pilgrims are required to obtain a specific Umrah visa, which must be applied for through the Nusuk platform.

This change ensures that all pilgrims have a structured travel plan, with confirmed accommodations and transportation. The aim is to prevent overcrowding and reduce the logistical challenges that can arise when people travel without proper planning. By separating tourist visas from the Umrah visa, Saudi Arabia can maintain better control over the number of pilgrims in the country at any given time, allowing for a more manageable and secure pilgrimage experience.

New Documentation for Family Stays

In another important update, pilgrims who plan to stay with relatives in Saudi Arabia during their pilgrimage must provide the host’s unified Saudi ID when applying for the Umrah visa. This ID is linked to the pilgrim’s visa and is necessary to track the pilgrim’s movements while in the country.

This regulation ensures that the authorities can accurately monitor where pilgrims are staying, whether in hotels or with family members, enhancing security and safety during the pilgrimage. Moreover, if there are any changes to the pilgrim’s travel plans or itinerary, these adjustments must be updated in the system, ensuring that the Saudi authorities have the most up-to-date information.

Streamlined Process for a Safer Pilgrimage

The 2025 updates reflect Saudi Arabia’s ongoing commitment to improving the safety and organization of the Umrah pilgrimage. By implementing these measures, the country aims to ensure that pilgrims have a safe, well-planned, and fulfilling experience.

For pilgrims, these changes mean they must plan their journey in advance and ensure they are following the updated requirements to avoid any disruptions. Booking through the official Nusuk platform will make the process more transparent and secure. With accommodation and transportation confirmed early in the process, pilgrims can focus on the spiritual aspect of their journey without worrying about logistical challenges. Additionally, staying with family will require the submission of the host’s Saudi ID, ensuring that the authorities have a clear and accurate record of each pilgrim’s movements.

How to Prepare for the 2025 Umrah Visa

To ensure a smooth experience, pilgrims should start by visiting the Nusuk platform, where they can submit their visa application and make necessary bookings for hotels and transportation. By using the official platform, pilgrims can rest assured that their arrangements meet the new standards set by the Saudi government.

Additionally, it’s essential to check the latest updates and guidelines to ensure all requirements are met. Pilgrims should also be aware of the new documentation rules, especially if they plan to stay with family during their trip. Providing the necessary information about their host’s Saudi ID is crucial for compliance with the new regulations.

Saudi Arabia’s updated Umrah visa process for 2025 emphasizes the importance of pre-arranged accommodations, verified transportation, and accurate documentation. By adhering to these new rules and using the Nusuk platform, pilgrims can ensure a safer and more organized pilgrimage experience. With careful planning and preparation, pilgrims can enjoy a fulfilling spiritual journey without the concerns of logistical issues.