What Every Pilgrim Must Know Before Traveling
As of October 2025, Saudi Arabia has announced new Umrah visa regulations to make the pilgrimage process easier, safer, and more transparent. These updates are part of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 initiative, aiming to enhance the experience for millions of pilgrims visiting Makkah and Madinah each year.
If you’re planning Umrah soon, this guide explains the current Umrah visa rules, how they’ve changed from earlier in 2025, and what you must do to ensure a smooth travel experience.
1️⃣ What Changed in the New Umrah Visa Rules (October 2025 Update)
Earlier in 2025, pilgrims had limited entry windows and strict conditions for visa issuance. Those deadlines have now expired — and the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has introduced simpler, more inclusive policies.
Here’s what’s new:
✅ All visa holders (including visit, tourism, and family visa holders) can now perform Umrah.
✅ Mandatory hotel booking confirmation is required via Nusuk Masar, the official online platform.
✅ Transportation details must often be included during visa application (especially for organized groups).
✅ The Umrah visa is now valid for 90 days from the date of issue.
✅ Pilgrims can enter from any international airport in Saudi Arabia (Jeddah, Madinah, Riyadh, Dammam).
These rules are part of the government’s plan to make the Umrah journey seamless and to support pilgrims with verified services only.
2️⃣ Who Can Apply for an Umrah Visa Now?
As of October 2025, the following categories of travelers can apply or perform Umrah:
Holders of Umrah Visas issued by Saudi authorities.
Travelers with Tourist or Family Visit Visas (multi-entry).
Residents of GCC countries.
Holders of UK, US, and Schengen visas can apply for Umrah upon arrival.
Those entering through the Nusuk app or approved agents.
This inclusivity ensures that pilgrims from around the world — whether visiting for work, family, or tourism — can now perform Umrah easily.
3️⃣ The Nusuk Masar Requirement Explained
One of the major 2025 updates is the mandatory hotel booking via the Nusuk Masar platform.
Before applying for your Umrah visa, you must:
Book your accommodation through Nusuk Masar or an authorized agent.
Upload the hotel confirmation as part of your visa application.
Ensure your booking covers your entire stay in Makkah and Madinah.
This step helps prevent fake bookings and ensures all pilgrims have verified, safe accommodation.
4️⃣ Duration and Validity of the Umrah Visa (as of October 2025)
The new Umrah visa is valid for 90 days from the issue date. You can perform Umrah any time during this period, as long as your hotel booking matches your stay.
🕐 Stay Duration: 90 days
🌍 Multiple Entry: Allowed for some categories (tourist/family visas)
🕌 Purpose: Religious pilgrimage (Umrah only)
5️⃣ Health & Safety Requirements (Late 2025 Guidelines)
Saudi authorities continue to focus on pilgrims’ health. To ensure smooth entry:
💉 Make sure your vaccination certificates (especially meningitis & COVID-19) are up to date.
🧾 Keep printed and digital copies of your Nusuk bookings and travel confirmations.
👨⚕️ For any health concerns, visit approved medical centers near the Haram areas.
6️⃣ What Pilgrims with Old or Expired Dates Should Know
If you received your visa or hotel confirmation earlier in 2025 (before April or May):
Those entry deadlines are no longer valid.
You must apply again under the new October 2025 regulations.
Re-book your hotel and transportation through Nusuk Masar or a certified Umrah operator.
Tip: Do not rely on old bookings or expired visa approvals — always check the latest rules before traveling.
7️⃣ Step-by-Step Process to Apply for an Umrah Visa (October 2025)
Here’s how to apply under the new system:
📲 Download or visit the official Nusuk platform (www.nusuk.sa).
🧳 Select your visa type (Umrah / visit / tourism).
🏨 Book approved accommodation via Nusuk Masar.
✈️ Add transport details (airport transfers or intercity taxi services).
💳 Pay the visa and booking fees online.
📩 Receive your E-Visa via email and print it before travel.
For pilgrims arriving at Jeddah, Madinah, or Taif, Al Haramain Taxi Service offers reliable transportation between holy cities — making your journey comfortable and safe.
8️⃣ Travel Tips for a Smooth Umrah Journey (Recommended by Al Haramain Taxi Service)
🚖 Always book your intercity transport in advance (especially from Jeddah → Makkah or Makkah → Madinah).
🕋 Keep your Nusuk booking and visa documents printed.
🕌 Choose early morning or late-night travel to avoid traffic near Haram areas.
💼 For families, book private taxis or vans for a peaceful trip.
📱 Keep the Nusuk and Tawakkalna apps updated for digital verification.
Conclusion: Plan Your Umrah Smartly in 2025
Performing Umrah in 2025 is now more convenient than ever — with flexible visa options, digital bookings, and verified transport services. By following the latest October 2025 visa rules, pilgrims can focus on their spiritual journey without worrying about logistics.
For comfortable travel between Makkah, Madinah, Jeddah, and Taif, trust Al Haramain Taxi Service — your reliable partner for safe, clean, and affordable transport during Umrah season.