In November 2022, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in conjunction with the Saudi Tourism Authority launched a new online platform named "Nusuk" to guide pilgrims through the Umrah visa process.
Tourists from around the world are now able to plan their entire Umrah journey on the new Saudi Arabian online platform Nusuk, which helps pilgrims obtain the necessary visas. In addition to foreign pilgrims, this platform is also available to domestic pilgrims.
Below are links to Nusuk's website and mobile applications:
Nusuk Call Center Number: 00966920002814
Nusuk: what is it?
Nusuk provides you with the platform for your Umrah Gateway.
The Nusuk app includes the following features:
1. Electronically issued Umrah visas.
2. Arranges transportation and travel services for international pilgrims, as well as providing information about cultural events.
3. Facilitating the visit to the Prophet's Mosque and reserving Umrah permits for travellers.
4. Packages for Umrah pilgrims can be reserved.
5. The provision of detailed instructions in multiple languages in a digital guide for pilgrims.
You can create your Umrah itinerary for Makkah, Madina, and beyond with this platform. A guide for pilgrims to Mecca and Medina, including information on immigration requirements, Umrah group packages, rituals to follow during Umrah, and information on various sites to visit within Mecca and Medina.
In regards to Umrah specifically, the Nusuk App guides users on how to apply for the Umrah visa and enables them to book a time slot for their Umrah permit application based on available slots. Nusuk's website states that pilgrims must book an Umrah permit via the app before visiting the Grand Mosque in Mecca. Booking during less crowded times is also highly recommended, which helps pilgrims complete the Umrah in reverence and peace.
As well, if you visited Medina's mosque of the Prophet Mohammed [PBUH], you would need a permit to pray in Al Rawda Al Sharifa, the priestly area where the tomb of the Prophet Mohammed [PBUH] is located.
Aside from that, the app makes it easy to select how to apply for an Umrah visa.
Umrah Visa
Before embarking on the Umrah journey, foreign pilgrims need to apply for a visa. A visa is required to perform the Umrah. Umrah visas are divided into a few categories, based on your nationality and country of residence, and the Nusuk app allows you to apply for one.
Types of Umrah visa categories:
Umrah visas are categorised into three types:
1. Visa on arrival: Available to residents of 49 eligible countries and to holders of UK, US or Schengen visas.
2. eVisa: Available to residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
3. Umrah visa: Applicants who do not fall under either of the above categories must apply for visa packages through travel agents and Umrah operators approved by Nusuk. Those who fall under this category will be given a list of Nusuk-partnered agencies where they can apply for a visa.
For More Details Read: Who Can Apply For A Saudi Online EVisa And Visa On Arrival
Identifying which type of Umrah visa you are eligible for is as follows:
1. Visit nususk.sa and scroll down.
2. Click on the ‘Start your visa process’ category.
3. A pop-up box will appear where you will be asked to enter your nationality.
4. Next, you will be asked if you are a ‘US, UK or EU permanent resident or a US, UK or Schengen visa holder? Select either 'yes' or 'no'. Choosing 'yes' will allow you to get a visa upon arrival.
5. Selecting 'no' will prompt you to confirm your residency in the GCC. In the event you hold a valid residency permit from one of the GCC countries, you will be eligible to apply for an eVisa or an Umrah package.
6. Selecting 'no' to both questions will require you to apply for an Umrah package through an approved operator. Under the 'offers and packages' section of the Nusuk platform, you can find authorised agents.
Umrah permit
An Umrah permit is an electronic document issued by the Nusuk app that allows holders access to the Grand Mosque, enables them to pray at the Noble Rawdah, and in essence allows them to perform Umrah.
Every person who wishes to perform the minor pilgrimage must obtain a permit for Umrah. There is no exemption for Saudi residents or citizens from the Umrah permit requirement. Umrah permits are required for them as well.
How to apply for the Umrah permit using Nusuk app:
You can download Nusuk app for iOS and Android devices. You must create an account to use the app.
You need to select your language when you open the app and enter your details. Follow these steps to create an account and book an Umrah permit:
Step 1: Create an account in Nusuk App
For international visitors, select 'Visitor' account and enter the following details:
• Visa number: As mentioned on your Saudi eVisa or Umrah visa.
• Passport number
• Date of Birth
• Nationality
• Mobile number
• Email address
Enter your details, create a password, and accept the terms and conditions.
Afterwards, click 'Register'. After that, you will be prompted to enter a One-Time Password (OTP), which you will receive via SMS.
Step 2: Book your Umrah trip (Date and Time)
Upon creating an account, go to the homepage and click on Umrah.
You will then need to schedule the Umrah date and time. The app will show you a calendar.The Gregoriann and Islamic calendars are available. You can only book two months in advance. Green entries indicate that there will be fewer crowds, while red entries indicate that there will be a lot of crowds. After booking the date, book a time slot.
Click 'continue' to continue.
Following that, you will be able to view a summary of your Umrah details. It includes:
1. Reservation and permit number.
2. Permit QR code.
3. Date and time slot.
We now conclude our guide on how to plan your entire Umrah journey online through Saudi Arabia's new Nusuk platform. In case there is a mistake, please let us know at info@arablocal.com. Let us know what you want us to write about next in the comment box below.
Also Read: Pilgrimage Of The Two Holy Cities - Makkah And Medina