JAKARTA – Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced the implementation of new regulations for the Nusk Card, an innovative smart system aimed at transforming the pilgrimage experience for visitors from around the world and within the Kingdom.

Comprehensive Digital Solution

The initiative, officially titled “Nusk Al-Umrah,” consolidates vital pilgrimage services into a single, user-friendly card system that enhances safety, operational efficiency, and service coordination at major holy sites.

Engineer Abdul Aziz Al-Mutahmi, Undersecretary for Digital Transformation at the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, described the card as a direct gateway to essential services. In an interview with Al-Ekhbariya channel, he explained that the system is engineered to streamline complicated logistics and provide pilgrims with rapid access to necessary support.

Key Features and Services

The Nusk Card provides access to a wide range of services designed to improve the pilgrimage journey:

• Transportation coordination: Management of shuttle bus services
• Crowd management: Enhanced control systems in high-traffic pilgrimage areas
• Operational efficiency: Streamlined refueling processes to minimize service interruptions
• Accommodation access: Simplified lodging arrangements and scheduled transport
• Integrated support: Additional services to ensure a well-organized pilgrimage

Dual Format for Universal Access

Recognizing the diverse needs of pilgrims, the Ministry has developed both digital and physical card formats. Domestic pilgrims can access the system through their mobile devices, while international visitors receive printed cards upon entering Saudi Arabia. This dual approach ensures the system is accessible to all pilgrims, regardless of their technological capabilities or country of origin.

Complementary Digital Platform

The Ministry has also introduced the Nusuk Umrah digital platform, which serves as a comprehensive tool for pilgrimage planning. The platform enables users to:

• Submit digital Umrah visa applications
• Reserve flights, accommodations, and transportation
• Access detailed guidance for navigating holy sites and travel routes
• Browse verified Umrah packages from authorized service providers

Visa Application Requirements for 2025

Pilgrims planning to perform Umrah can apply through the official Nusuk Umrah platform or through Ministry-approved travel agencies. Required documentation includes:

• Valid passport with minimum six months remaining validity
• Health certificates and vaccination records, including mandatory Meningococcal Meningitis vaccination (must be administered between 10 days and three years prior to travel)
• Travel requirements for women:
  • Women under 45 must be accompanied by a legal Mahram (male guardian)
  • Women 45 and older may travel with authorized group arrangements
• Application timeline: Visa submissions are accepted from the 1st of Safar through the end of Shaaban

Vision 2030 Integration

These technological advancements align with Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to significantly increase pilgrimage capacity while elevating service quality. The Kingdom is investing in comprehensive infrastructure improvements, including airport expansions, enhanced transportation networks, and diverse accommodation options ranging from premium luxury packages to economical alternatives for budget-conscious pilgrims.

The digital transformation represents a significant step toward making the pilgrimage experience more accessible, efficient, and spiritually fulfilling for millions of Muslims worldwide.

Original Article:

The Daily Jagran. (2025, December 8). Hajj And Umrah Reforms: Saudi Arabia Introduces New Rules To Digitally Transform Services For Pilgrims; Details.  Retrieved from https://www.thedailyjagran.com/world/hajj-and-umrah-reforms-saudi-arabia-introduces-new-rules-to-digitally-transform-services-for-pilgrims-details-10284486