Saudi Arabia New Nusuk Umrah Platform and Updated Visa Rules

Saudi Arabia launches the Nusuk Umrah platform with updated visa rules for 2025. Learn about online applications and seasonal entry deadlines.

Saudi Arabia has expanded its digital services for Umrah pilgrims and visa rules to make the process more efficient. The launch of new Nusuk Umrah platform gives applicants the ability to apply online and book travel services directly.

Nusuk Umrah platform

The Nusuk portal has been introduced as a single point of access for international pilgrims. Applicants can use the platform to complete visa applications, arrange accommodation and transportation, and choose between ready-made travel packages without intermediaries. It is available in seven languages and linked to existing government systems to improve flexibility for travelers.

Visa updates and seasonal rules

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has also confirmed new rules for regional pilgrims. Citizens and residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are now permitted to perform Umrah at any time of the year. Entry is allowed through all land, air, and sea ports, but access to the holy sites requires advance permits issued through the Nusuk app or platform. These permits are mandatory for Umrah as well as for prayers at the Rawdah Al Sharifah in the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah.

For international visitors, visa issuance resumed on June 10, 2025, with Nusuk permits made available the following day. The last day to issue Umrah visas is the first of Shawwal and pilgrims may enter the Kingdom until the 15th of Shawwal. All departures must take place by the first of Dhul Qi’dah.

The Ministry has also tightened oversight of external agents. New applications from external agents will not be accepted, and contracts should be finalized and recorded by the first day of Shaaban each year.

Growth in Umrah attendance

Figures released by the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) on August 21, 2025, show that more than 15.2 million people performed Umrah in the first quarter of 2025. International participation rose to 6.52 million pilgrims, a 10.7 percent increase compared with the same period in 2024, while domestic pilgrims reached 8.69 million.

Most international travelers, about 82 percent, arrived by air. Madinah continued to attract large numbers of pilgrims, welcoming 6.45 million pilgrims, out of which 4.41 million were from abroad. Attendance trends also showed seasonal peaks, with January seeing the highest number of international visitors and March recording the largest share of domestic participation.

In short

Saudi Arabia’s launch of the Nusuk platform and the updated visa rules can simplify the Umrah process for pilgrims. GCC residents now have year-round access, and international visitors can visit as per seasonal deadlines

Read more: What is the Iqama (Saudi Arabia Residence Permit)?

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