If you’re planning your Umrah journey soon, there’s an important update you need to know about. Saudi authorities have introduced new rules that require all pilgrims to pre-book their accommodation and transport before even applying for a visa. This means you can’t just sort things out after you arrive anymore. Your hotel and travel within the Kingdom must be confirmed in advance. I have all the important details you need to know, before your next pilgrimage, so keep reading to find out more.
Also read: 2 Saudi Arabia Towers Set To Surpass Burj Khalifa! When Will They Be Ready?
Why The New Rules?
Travel companies in the UAE explained that the goal is to streamline pilgrim travel and make sure operators follow the law. Authorities are carrying out stricter checks at Jeddah and Madinah airports, making sure everyone has the correct Umrah visa, valid hotel bookings, and licensed transport arranged.
These measures are also part of Saudi Arabia’s wider push to stop illegal taxi services operating around airports and pilgrimage routes. Only prepaid taxis booked through the official portal or tickets for the Haramain Express high-speed rail are being accepted as valid transport.
What Pilgrims Need To Do
So, what does this mean for you? When applying for an Umrah visa, you’ll need to provide proof of your hotel and transport bookings right away. If you’re flying into Jeddah, security will check that you’ve got everything pre-arranged before you head to Makkah.
Even though individual pilgrims won’t face penalties, the Umrah aggregators (travel operators) could get fined or even have their systems blocked if they send people without confirmed bookings. That’s why operators in the UAE are urging everyone to sort out flights, hotels, and transport at the same time as their visa application.
The Role Of Digital Platforms
The whole process is now linked to Saudi Arabia’s digital systems. Bookings must be entered into ‘Masar’, which is connected to the Nusuk App. Hotels also need to be officially registered with the Hajj and Umrah authorities, and transport must be booked through the Nusuk-approved portal. Another advisement is that you definitely should not try to perform Umrah on a tourist visa. Without a proper Umrah visa, pilgrims could be stopped from visiting major religious sites, including Riyaz ul Jannah.
How Much Does It Cost?
Currently, the cost of an Umrah visa starts at around AED 750, but this may vary depending on your nationality. Keep in mind that since hotels and transport must now be pre-booked, the total cost of your trip could be higher than before.
So, if you’re planning Umrah anytime soon, make sure your visa application, flights, hotel stay, and transportation are all sorted out together. This way, you’ll avoid unnecessary stress, delays, or worse – being denied entry at the airport.
