Saudi Arabia makes hotel booking mandatory for Umrah Visa

Saudi Arabia has introduced a new rule for all international Umrah pilgrims. From June 10, 2025 (14 Dhu al-Hijjah 1446 AH), anyone wanting to perform Umrah must first book a hotel through the official Nusuk Masar platform before applying for a visa.

Nusuk Masar is now the official online system for managing Umrah-related services. It allows pilgrims to book hotels, confirm reservations, and manage their pilgrimage permits. It also provides helpful information in multiple languages to guide pilgrims during their journey.

According to the new policy, all travel agents and companies offering Umrah services—both within Saudi Arabia and abroad—must arrange hotel stays only in accommodations approved by the Ministry of Tourism.

These bookings must be properly documented and uploaded on the Nusuk Masar platform before the visa process can begin.

The Saudi Ministry says this new step is meant to protect the rights of pilgrims, improve hotel standards, and make the overall Umrah experience more smooth and organized. It also ensures that all pilgrims stay in officially licensed hotels and receive professional service throughout their visit.

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