In a major policy shift to enhance the Umrah experience and protect the rights of pilgrims, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has announced that no Umrah visa will be issued to international pilgrims without prior confirmation and documentation of hotel bookings via the “Nusuk Masar” platform. This new rule came into effect on June 10, 2025 (14 Dhu al-Hijjah 1446 AH). The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah made the announcement through its official channels, including an official post on X (formerly Twitter). According to a report by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the decision applies to all pilgrims arriving from abroad and mandates that accommodations must be booked only in hotels licensed by the Ministry of Tourism. All contracts must be electronically submitted and approved through the Nusuk Masar digital platform, the centralized portal for managing all pilgrimage-related services.
Objectives of the Policy and Government’s Vision
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah clarified that this move is intended to:
- Protect the rights of pilgrims
- Eliminate unauthorized and fraudulent housing practices
- Prevent overbooking
- Ensure a high standard of accommodation
- Streamline the pilgrimage journey for Umrah visitors
In an official statement, the Ministry said:“The new decision aims to enhance the professionalism of service delivery, improve the experience for both visitors and Umrah performers, and guarantee that pilgrims stay in licensed, compliant facilities.” The initiative is part of broader efforts to align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which seeks to transform the Kingdom’s religious hospitality sector by integrating digital innovation and enforcing higher service standards. This policy also reflects close cooperation between the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and the Ministry of Tourism, both of which are working together to ensure a secure, seamless, and regulated pilgrimage experience for all.
Role of the Nusuk Masar Platform
The Nusuk Masar platform is a key component of this regulatory overhaul. It serves as the official digital gateway for managing pilgrimage-related services and documentation. Through the platform, pilgrims and service providers can:
- Book and confirm accommodations in Ministry-approved hotels
- Upload and verify housing contracts
- Manage permits and logistics related to Umrah
- Access educational materials in multiple languages
This centralized approach ensures better coordination, faster processing, and a more reliable experience for pilgrims and service agents alike.
Strict Enforcement and Compliance Measures
The Ministry has issued a strong advisory to Umrah service providers, including:
- Licensed companies
- Authorized establishments
- Foreign agents
All parties must ensure swift documentation and full compliance with the new directive. The Ministry warned that delays or failure to submit housing contracts through Nusuk Masar could lead to visa rejections, processing delays, or regulatory penalties. This push is also meant to eliminate previous complaints related to substandard accommodation, fraudulent bookings, and last-minute cancellations, issues that have affected the quality of service for many past pilgrims.With the 2025 Umrah season underway, Saudi Arabia’s new regulation represents a decisive effort to improve pilgrims’ safety and comfort. Beyond ensuring quality accommodations, the policy strengthens overall coordination among service providers and supports the Kingdom’s broader vision of elevating religious hospitality by combining tradition with advanced digital and regulatory measures.