Umrah Visa Changes in 2025: Complete Guide for Pilgrims
In 2025, Saudi Arabia introduced significant updates to Umrah visa rules and travel regulations. These changes directly affect Umrah pilgrims, travel agents, and Umrah operators worldwide. The primary purpose of these updates is to create a safer, more organized, and transparent pilgrimage experience while eliminating fraudulent practices within the Umrah travel industry.
These new regulations are part of a broader initiative under Saudi Vision 2030, which focuses on improving religious tourism by implementing digital systems, raising service standards, and ensuring pilgrims receive verified and high quality services throughout their journey.
Mandatory Use of the Nusuk Masar Platform
To improve service quality and ensure transparency, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has made it mandatory for all Umrah related services to be processed through the Nusuk Masar platform. Travel agents and pilgrims are now required to submit confirmed hotel bookings, flight tickets, and transportation details through this system.
Only licensed Umrah operators and verified service providers are allowed to operate within this platform. Any failure to comply with these requirements may result in visa delays, rejections, or financial penalties for the travel agency.
Therefore, it is important to book your Umrah through a licensed Umrah operator. We at GoGlobal help pilgrims make the right choice to avoid any unforeseen issues.
Visa Only Applications Are No Longer Accepted
Effective from June 10, 2025, Umrah visa only applications are no longer permitted. The Saudi authorities now require every Umrah visa application to be submitted with a complete Umrah package.
This means that visas will only be issued when accompanied by Nusuk-approved hotels, confirmed flights, and verified ground transportation. The objective of this change is to prevent incomplete or misleading Umrah packages and to ensure that all pilgrims receive properly coordinated travel services.
Hotel Bookings Must Cover the Entire Stay
Pilgrims must now provide hotel bookings that cover the entire duration of their stay in Saudi Arabia. Partial hotel bookings are no longer acceptable, and pilgrims are not allowed to stay with relatives or in private apartments during any part of their Umrah journey.
Hotel check in and check-out dates must clearly match the arrival and departure dates mentioned in flight bookings. Any mismatch between hotel and flight details can result in visa delays or outright rejection.
Only Registered Hotels via Nusuk Masar Are Allowed
Only hotels licensed and approved by the Saudi Ministry of Tourism are permitted to be included in Umrah packages. Travel agents must ensure that all accommodation is booked through the Nusuk Masar platform and that verified hotel contracts are uploaded at the time of application.
Hotels that are not registered within the Saudi Ministry’s system, even if located in Makkah or Madinah, are strictly prohibited.
Advance Transport Arrangements Are Compulsory
Confirmed transportation has become a mandatory requirement for Umrah visa approval. Each Umrah package must include verified transport arrangements such as airport pickups, intercity transfers between Makkah and Madinah, and transportation to holy sites.
Applications submitted without complete transportation details will be rejected. This regulation enhances pilgrim safety, reduces congestion, and ensures smooth movement throughout the journey.
Same Hotel and Vehicle Policy
Under the new rules, all members of a group must stay in the same hotel and travel using the same designated vehicle. Splitting group members across different hotels or transport services is strictly prohibited.
Any violation of this policy can lead to penalties for the travel agency and cancellation of group approvals.
Visa Fees Linked to Vehicle and Passenger Count
Visa fees are now calculated based on the type of vehicle selected and the number of passengers included in the package. Saudi authorities use this information to manage traffic flow and transportation planning, especially during peak Umrah seasons.
Children Must Be Included in Booking Details
Every child traveling for Umrah must be included in the Umrah package details. Children aged two years and above are required to have an assigned hotel bed and a reserved seat in transportation. Infants under two years of age do not require a separate bed or seat; however, their complete details must still be added to the booking for visa processing purposes. A separate seat for an infant may be arranged upon request, subject to availability and additional charges.
Any missing or incorrect information for minors may lead to visa rejection therefore, accurate and complete documentation is essential.
Confirmed Air Tickets Required
Only confirmed flight tickets are accepted for Umrah visa processing. Provisional or tentative flight bookings are no longer valid under the new regulations.
No Amendments After Visa Issuance
Once an Umrah visa and package are approved, no amendments are allowed. This includes changes to hotels, travel dates, transportation arrangements, or group members.
Pilgrims must ensure that all details are final and verified before submitting the application.
Why These Measures Are in Place
These policy updates are part of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to enhancing the Umrah experience under Vision 2030. By enforcing stricter regulations, authorities aim to protect pilgrims, prevent misuse of the visa system, and deliver a more organized and secure pilgrimage journey.
How Go Global Supports you
GoGlobal remains fully compliant with the latest Umrah regulations and provides complete Umrah solutions that meet all Saudi Ministry requirements. Our services include verified hotels, approved transportation, and fully Nusuk compliant Umrah packages.
By chosing GoGlobal, pilgrims can confidently enjoy a seamless, compliant, and high quality Umrah experience while having peace of mind that all arrangements meet regulatory standards.