Saudi Arabia has launched a new, streamlined system for Umrah pilgrims, integrating visa applications, accommodation, and transport into official digital platforms to create a more organized and transparent process. According to Umrah operators in the UAE, while the changes simplify planning, they also require stricter compliance from pilgrims, with heavy fines for violations.
A major change is that accommodation must now be booked at the time of the visa application through official platforms like Masar. Pilgrims can no longer arrange hotels later. Those planning to stay with relatives must provide their host’s official Saudi ID number, which will be linked directly to the visa.
The new rules strictly prohibit performing Umrah on a tourist visa. All pilgrims must now obtain a dedicated Umrah visa via the Nusuk platform. The itinerary submitted during the application is binding, and overstaying is not permitted, leading to significant fines for agents. However, a visa on arrival remains an option for travelers holding valid visas from the US, UK, Canada, or Schengen countries, provided they have previously visited those regions.
Upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, airport officials will verify that all hotel and transport bookings are registered in the system. Pilgrims are required to use only authorized transportation, such as pre-booked taxis or the Haramain Express train, which has limited operating hours.
The Saudi government is enforcing these regulations strictly, imposing heavy fines starting from around SAR 750 on both pilgrims and agents for any breach of the rules, from using an unauthorized car to overstaying the visa.
