Umrah 2025 Visa Rules | Hotel & Transport Booking
Saudi Arabia has introduced new regulations for Umrah visas in 2025, requiring pilgrims to pre-book both hotel accommodation and local transport before their visa applications can be approved.
Under the revised rules, applicants must provide verified bookings through the official Nusuk platform or via licensed travel operators. Without these confirmed arrangements, Umrah visa requests may face delays or outright rejection.
Officials said the move aims to prevent fraudulent practices, improve crowd management during peak pilgrimage seasons, and enhance the overall experience for visitors. Centralizing bookings is also part of the Kingdom’s broader Vision 2030 strategy, which emphasizes digital transformation and professionalization of the religious tourism sector.
The requirement means pilgrims will need to lock in key travel arrangements well in advance, reducing flexibility but ensuring greater transparency and safety. Travel agencies are expected to offer more all-inclusive packages covering visas, hotels, and transport to comply with the new system.
Authorities have advised pilgrims to rely only on licensed agents and to carefully check cancellation and refund policies when booking in advance.