Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Find answers to frequently asked questions about our products, services, and policies.

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Domestic Hajj for the Year 1447 AH

Umrah Visa

Laws and Regulations

Visit Visa (Tourism, Visit, Work)

Gathering Points and Transportation

Umrah Times

Prayer and Tawaf

Nusuk app

Visit and Pray in the Prophet's Mosque

General Questions

Is it possible to attend to perform Umrah one hour or more after the permit time?

We kindly ask you to adhere to the time specified in the permit to perform Umrah, and you may book again after the permit time has ended.

Is it possible to modify the Umrah time?

There is no feature to modify Umrah timings, but you can cancel the appointment through the Nusk app before the permit time starts and issue a new permit. If the permit time has started, a new permit can be issued after the first permit expires.

Is it possible to enter the Haram before the permit time?

Entering Al-Masjid Al-Haram for performing Umrah is linked to the permit time, but one can enter for prayer at any time.

Is there a specific time period between one Umrah and another?

The Umrah permit issuance period has been modified so that only one active permit exists, and booking can be made again after the permit expires.

Is it possible to obtain a Tawaf permit for non-Umrah performers?

Tawaf is allowed without a permit on the first floor.

What is the mechanism for registering biometric data to issue Umrah visas electronically?

You can register biometric data by downloading the (Saudi Visa Bio) app for smart devices, then selecting the visa type, using the passport’s optical reading, capturing the face image from the camera and completing its verification, and then scanning all ten fingerprints electronically through the camera.

Which countries have started implementing the requirement to register biometric data (fingerprints)?

The requirement to register biometric data (fingerprints) for issuing Umrah visas electronically has started for arrivals from the following countries: United Kingdom, Tunisia, Kuwait, Bangladesh, Malaysia.

What is the approved app for registering biometric data?

The (Saudi Visa Bio) app for smart devices.

What are the authorized Umrah campaigns?

You can learn about the Umrah campaign service providers through the Ministry’s website and via the following link:

Is there a fine if the visa has expired and the person is still in the Kingdom, and how much is the fine?

The imposition of fines and penalties on those who delay leaving the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia after the visa expires does not fall within the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

What is the allowed period between the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah’s approval of the visa request via the e-portal and the Umrah performer visiting the embassy to obtain the visa?

15 days.

Is it possible to extend the Umrah visa for the Hajj season?

It is not possible to extend the Umrah visa for the Hajj season.

What is the allowed period between obtaining the visa from the Saudi embassy and entering the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia?

Entry into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia must be within three (3) months from the date of visa issuance, and the stay in the Kingdom must not exceed thirty days, ending at the latest on 15 Dhu al-Qi’dah.

Are there specific airports for Umrah pilgrims to enter and exit?

The Umrah pilgrim can enter and exit from any international or regional airport in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Is it possible to book service packages through the Maqam platform?

Booking can be done through the approved platforms on Maqam.

What is the date for canceling the repeated Umrah fees?

There are no fees for repeating Umrah.

My Umrah visa was rejected by the Saudi embassy in my country, what should I do?

Umrah visas fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and its representations abroad. For inquiries, please contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at (920033334) from within the Kingdom or (+966920033334) from outside the Kingdom.

Is it possible to obtain an Umrah visa from one country and then travel from another country to the Kingdom to perform Umrah?

Yes, the pilgrim can obtain an Umrah visa from their country and travel from another country to the Kingdom to perform Umrah.

Can a resident Umrah pilgrim enter through the land ports with their own car or a rented car?

A resident Umrah pilgrim from countries authorized to enter the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is allowed to enter through land ports with their own or rented car, provided they obtain a vehicle entry permit from the competent authorities in their country or the authorized agent only.

Can a pilgrim enter the Kingdom by one means of transport and exit by a different one?

Yes, that is possible.

Can I come with an Umrah visa without a service package?

An Umrah visa cannot be issued by the external agent without service packages (accommodation – transport).

Will I have to pay any additional amounts outside the contract I signed with the Umrah company in my country?

You are not required to pay any additional amounts outside the contract unless you wish to add other services not mentioned in the contract.

What is the latest date for Umrah pilgrims to leave without being considered in default by the Umrah companies?

According to the program through which they applied or before the visa period (90) days ends.

What is the Umrah visa fee for arrivals from outside Saudi Arabia?

There is a fee for issuing the Umrah visa, estimated at 300 Saudi Riyals.

Can Umrah pilgrims from abroad perform Umrah more than once in the same year?

Yes, it is possible to obtain an Umrah visa more than once in a year.

Is it possible to travel between cities in the Kingdom with an Umrah visa?

Yes, the Umrah visa allows the pilgrim to travel between Mecca, Medina, and all cities in the Kingdom during their permitted stay.

Is it possible to extend the Umrah visa for more than 90 days?

The system does not allow extending the Umrah visa for more than 90 days.

What is the duration of stay for arrivals with Umrah visas?

The duration of stay for arrivals with Umrah visas is 90 days.

How do I choose an Umrah company inside the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia?

All Umrah pilgrims coming from outside the Kingdom to perform Umrah inside Saudi Arabia are linked to operating contracts with Umrah offices in their country (the external agent) accredited by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. You can find the accredited Umrah offices via the following link:

How can you obtain an Umrah visa?

The visa can be obtained in two ways: designing the Umrah program directly through one of the approved electronic platforms (such as Nusk). Contacting the external agent to obtain the visa through the Nusk app, visiting the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, selecting services, completing the requirements for issuing the visa, and booking the services. To check the visa status or inquire about the list of pilgrims only, you can access the following link:

What are the vaccination and institutional quarantine requirements for arrivals with an Umrah visa?

There is no institutional quarantine for arrivals with an Umrah visa, and to learn about the approved vaccine types, you can visit the following link:

What are the requirements for arriving to perform Umrah?

To know the arrival requirements according to the country of arrival, please visit the Ministry’s website via the following link:

Can Umrah performers from abroad perform Umrah more than once during the same year?

Umrah visas start being issued from the 15th of Dhu al-Hijjah.

What is the Umrah visa?

An electronic visa granted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to pilgrims wishing to perform Umrah, allowing them freedom of movement between Makkah, Madinah, and all cities of the Kingdom during their stay.

Do any of the Umrah instructions and regulations apply to GCC citizens?

The instructions and regulations that apply to Saudi citizens also apply to them.

How many times is it allowed to perform Umrah?

There is no specific number of times to perform Umrah.

Are children allowed inside the courtyards of the Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah?

Yes, children are allowed inside the courtyards of the Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah.

Are children allowed to be with their guardians to perform Umrah?

Children aged five and above are allowed to perform Umrah if they have not been confirmed to be infected with the Coronavirus.

What are the age groups allowed to enter the Haram and perform the ritual?

Umrah is allowed for those aged five and above if they have not been confirmed to be infected with the Coronavirus.

How are permits for Umrah and prayer in Al-Rawdah Al-Sharifah booked?

You can issue a permit to perform Umrah or pray in Al-Rawdah Al-Sharifah through the Nusk or Tawakkalna app. The registered user in the app books the Umrah/prayer appointment in Al-Rawdah Al-Sharifah, and the permit is activated once the information is complete.

Is it necessary to book permits for Umrah and prayer in Al-Rawdah Al-Sharifah?

Yes, booking permits for performing Umrah and praying in Al-Rawdah Al-Sharifah is required for those who have not been confirmed to be infected with the Coronavirus.

Who is allowed to perform Umrah?

Umrah and prayer permits in Al-Rawdah Al-Sharifah are granted to those who have not been confirmed to be infected with the Coronavirus.

When does the Umrah season begin?

It starts from 1 Muharram to 30 Dhu al-Qi’dah.

Can I book prayers in the Grand Mosque for consecutive days?

Prayers can be performed at any time without a permit.

Can a prayer and Umrah permit be booked at the same time?

There is no prayer permit.

Is it possible to stay for prayers after completing Umrah?

Yes, it is allowed.

Is it possible to stay in the Haram after Isha prayer?

For information on this matter, you can contact the Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques.

Is it required to go to the assembly point if there is a confirmed booking at a hotel near the Haram?

You can go directly to the Haram if there is a confirmed booking at a hotel, without needing to pass through the assembly point.

Where can transportation tickets be purchased?

Transportation tickets can be purchased upon arrival at the assembly center, noting that payment is available via bank cards or cash.

Is purchasing transportation tickets mandatory? Is it required if there is a confirmed booking at a hotel near the Haram?

Transportation tickets are optional and not mandatory for all categories.

What are the assembly points and where are they located?

The main assembly points are located at the entrances to the Haram courtyards. They are the usual Haram checkpoints and do not have parking spaces. They are sorting points where it is verified that the pilgrim has an Umrah permit, then directed to the bus for transfer to the nearest point to the Haram. Assembly points provide a shuttle service to and from the Haram for those with confirmed bookings at one of the central hotels near the Haram.

Is it possible to modify the Umrah time?

There is no feature to modify Umrah times, but you can cancel the appointment through the Nusk app before the permit time begins and issue a new permit. If the permit time has started, a new permit can be issued after the first permit expires.

Is it possible to enter the Haram before the permit time?

Entering the Grand Mosque for Umrah is linked to the permit time, but entering for prayer is allowed at any time.

Is there a specific time period between one Umrah and another?

The period between Umrah permits has been set so that only one active permit exists, and booking can be made again after the permit expires.

Is there a specific time period between one Umrah and another? Can you cancel the permit after the appointment has started?

The beneficiary cannot cancel the permit after its time has started.

What is the mechanism for updating the email in the Nusk app?

The beneficiary can change the email in the Nusk app through the Settings page, then the Personal Data page, and then modify the email, or by contacting the Care Center for Pilgrims Services at the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah at 920002814.

Can you modify the previously registered visa number in Nusk?

Yes, the beneficiary can register the new visa in the Nusk app through the Settings page, then the Personal Data page, then modify the entered visa number, and it will be verified by the National Information Center.

If I am unable to enter the Kingdom, will my permit be canceled?

If you are unable to enter the Kingdom before or at the start of the permit time, the permit will be automatically canceled.

How will my registration in Nusk be confirmed?

A verification code will be sent to the registered email.

What data is required to register in Nusk as a visitor?

Passport number – Visa number – Date of birth – Nationality – Mobile number – Email.

Can you register in Nusk from outside the Kingdom as a visitor?

You can register in Nusk from outside the Kingdom as a visitor provided you have a valid visa.

Message appears: (Exceeded the maximum number of active permits)

This message appears if there is an active permit that has not been canceled; another permit cannot be issued until the current permit expires or is canceled. To verify, please check the permits in the Nusk app from your account or your companions’ accounts and ensure that no active permit exists, or cancel it if you wish to issue a new permit.

Are there any restrictions on the information that can be requested?

Yes, the requested information must be classified as public in accordance with the Freedom of Information Policy issued by the National Data Management Office

How can a request for general information be submitted?

By filling out the Freedom of Information request form, specifying the details of the information required, and submitting it through the official Ministry website.

What is Freedom of Information?

Freedom of Information is the right of individuals to access public data that the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah receives, produces, or handles after processing, regardless of its source, form, or nature.

What is the goal of Freedom of Information?

Freedom of Information aims to enable individuals to access available information from the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in order to promote the principle of transparency and integrity.

Who is entitled to request general information?

Any individual can submit a request to obtain general information, according to the Freedom of Information policy issued by the National Data Management Office.

Can I change the gender in Nusk?

Yes, you can change the gender in the Nusk app by contacting the Care Center for Pilgrims Services at the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah at 920002814.

Can I change my name in the Nusk app?

You can log in to the Nusk app, delete the account, and register as a new user, and the name will be updated automatically, or by contacting the Care Center for Pilgrims Services at the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah at 920002814.

Is it possible to issue a permit if vaccination is not complete?

Yes, vaccination is not required to perform Umrah, enter the Grand Mosque in Makkah, visit Al-Rawdah, or enter the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah.

Why does the permit appear inactive?

It is activated immediately when booking through the Nusk app.

Can I register in Nusk without registering in Tawakkalna?

Yes, registering in Nusk does not require registration in Tawakkalna.

Can I perform Umrah even if I am not fully vaccinated?

Umrah is allowed for those who have not been confirmed to be infected with the Coronavirus.

Is it possible to issue an Umrah visa or permit for children under 5 years old?

The minimum age for issuing an Umrah visa or permit is 5 years for those who have not been confirmed to be infected with the Coronavirus.

What procedures should be followed if you are late for the permit time?

If you are late for the permit time, you must wait until the first permit expires, and then issue a new permit.

Can I register in Nusk without registering in Tawakkalna?

Yes, registering in Nusk does not require registration in Tawakkalna.

Is it possible to modify the permit time?

There is no feature to modify the permit time, but it is possible to cancel the appointment through the Nusk app before the permit time starts, and then issue a new permit.

How many companions are allowed to be added?

Only 4 companions can be added excluding dependents, and there is no limit on the number of companions from dependents.

I cannot register in the Nusk app, what should I do?

Please uninstall the app and reinstall it, then try registering again.

Are there notifications for the nearest available appointment?

The notification feature is not available in the app.

How can a user’s status be updated from visitor to resident?

If the beneficiary wants to update the status from visitor to resident, they must log in to the Nusk app, delete the previous account, and register as a new user with the Iqama number.

What information is required from a visitor who wants to update their mobile number?

The information required when contacting the Care Center for Pilgrims Services at the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is: (Name, Nationality, Passport Number, New Mobile Number)

What information is required from a citizen or resident who wants to update their mobile number?

The information required when contacting the Care Center for Pilgrims Services at the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is: (Name, ID Number, New Mobile Number)

What is the procedure to update the mobile number in the Nusk app?

The user can change their mobile number in the Nusk app through the Settings page, then the Personal Data page, and then edit the mobile number, or by contacting the Care Center for Pilgrims Services at the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah at 920002814.

Two companions have been added, but the status is still pending. What should I do?

Please accept the addition request through the Tawakkalna account of the companion so that the addition can be completed via: Hajj & Umrah Services – Companions Management – People who added me to Hajj & Umrah Services – Accept Request, or through the Nusk app via Settings, Companions icon.

How can companions be added in the Nusk app?

To add companions in the Nusk app, please follow these steps: First: Open the Nusk app. Second: Select the type of permit as required. Third: Choose “Add Companion” at the bottom of the screen. Fourth: Log in to the companion’s account and accept the addition request.

Are there terms and conditions for adding companions?

Companions and dependents can be added. It allows adding: 1- Dependents or sponsored persons 2- Companions 3- Pending (counted within the total number of companions). Note: 1- Pending list: means the request is waiting for acceptance or rejection as a companion, so it is necessary to follow up with the companion within 24 hours to avoid cancellation. 2- It is possible to remove (unlink) between the user and the person who added them after 15 days from the addition. The date is counted from the time the user sends the addition request. 3- The companion can view the name and ID number of the person who added them and cannot be removed until 15 days have passed since the addition.

Can hotels and some essential services be booked through the Nusk app?

Yes, by clicking on “Book a Service,” a list of all approved platforms linked to the central booking engine Maqam will appear, and through these platforms you can book the services you want during your trip to Mecca or Medina, such as hotels, transportation, ground services, and more.

What can you do if you do not receive the app’s access code?

Please make sure the entered number and the selected country code are correct.

ماذا يمكن أن أفعل في حال تعذر إصدار تصريح العمرة من تطبيق توكلنا رغم تواجدي داخل المملكة العربية السعودية، بسبب ظهور رسالة ليس هناك مستفيدين مؤهلين للاستفادة من الخدمة؟ الرسالة تظهر للمستفيدين في تطبيق توكلنا وليس نسك

The Umrah permit can be issued through the Nusk app.

Does the Nusk app support international phone numbers?

Yes, registering in the Nusk app does not require a Saudi phone number.

The permit does not appear in the app after being issued!

Please pull the screen down to refresh the page and display the permit.

Is it allowed for children to be present in the courtyards of Al-Masjid an-Nabawi?

Yes, children are allowed to be present in the courtyards of Al-Masjid an-Nabawi.

Is it possible to modify or cancel the prayer time in the Rawdah Sharifah?

There is no feature to modify prayer times in the Rawdah Sharifah, but appointments can be canceled before the permit time through the Nusk app and a new permit can be issued.

Is it required to book a permit to pray and visit the Prophet’s grave (peace be upon him)?

Booking is not required, noting that sending salutations to the Prophet (peace be upon him) is allowed for men only.

Is there a specific time interval between visits to the Rawdah Sharifah?

Yes, 30 days

Is it required to book a permit to pray in the Rawdah Sharifah?

Yes, it is required to book a permit to pray in the Rawdah Sharifah.

Is it required to book a permit to pray in Al-Masjid an-Nabawi?

It is not required to book a time to pray in Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, but booking is required for prayer in the Rawdah Sharifah for age groups 5 years and older who have not been proven infected with the Coronavirus.

Is it possible to modify the visiting times for the Rawdah Sharifah?

There is no feature to change visiting times, but you can cancel appointments through the Nusk app and book permits at different times.

Can pilgrims perform Hajj every year, or is there a waiting period?

Priority is given to those who have not previously performed Hajj, except for a Mahram. This priority is applied only until the end of Shawwal. After that, booking will be available for anyone who meets the eligibility requirements for Hajj.

What is the minimum age allowed for performing Hajj?

15 years for citizens and residents, based on the Gregorian date recorded on the national ID for citizens.The Gregorian date recorded in the passport applies to residents, with no upper age limit.

How can I check the status of my Hajj booking?

Upon completing the booking and making all required payments, the applicant will receive an immediate notification via SMS. Booking status can also be checked directly through the NUSUK Masar platform or the NUSUK app.

How can I find information about a Hajj establishment?

To view details of a Hajj establishment, select the “Hajj Establishments” button. A list of Hajj companies will be displayed. You can then choose the desired company and click on it to view all company details.

What is the payment mechanism and the due dates for this year?

The payment period for the booking invoice, from the start of bookings until 27/11/1447H, is 72 hours. If payment is not made within the specified period, the booking will be canceled. Starting from 28/11/1447H, the payment period for the booking invoice is reduced to 6 hours only.

What is the last date for choosing partial payment?

Partial payment is not available this year.

How are booking fees paid?

Booking fees are paid electronically only via the SADAD system.

Can I change the Hajj establishment after booking?

Changing the establishment after booking is not allowed. However, the booking can be canceled and rebooked if availability permits.

Are children allowed to accompany pilgrims with the companies?

Children are not allowed to accompany pilgrims.

Is it possible to purchase gifts and sacrificial animals through the platform?

Yes, but only after purchasing the Hajj package contract. Sacrificial animals can be purchased via the NUSUK app.

Is air travel included in the package, or does it have a different process this year?

Service providers can create a package that includes air travel. Pilgrims can also select packages dedicated to land transportation. Air travel can be requested through an airline service provider after completing the booking as an additional service.

How can one apply for a Mahram exemption?

By selecting “Add Exemption Request” from the Actions button, completing the request form, and clicking Submit.

Can air travel be added after completing the package booking?

Air travel can be requested separately through an airline service provider as an additional service via the NUSUK marketplace.

What is the procedure for canceling a Hajj booking?

Booking cancellations are made through the NUSUK Masar platform or the NUSUK app, as follows:
• Before issuing the permit: If cancellation occurs by 30/10/1447H, no amount will be deducted.
• If the permit is rejected by the Ministry of Interior: Electronic service fees of SAR 67.85 per pilgrim will be deducted.
• If the permit has been issued: Cancellation from 1/11/1447H until the end of Dhu al-Qi’dah will incur a deduction of 10% of the contract value.
• If the permit has been issued: Cancellation from 1/12/1447H until the platform closes will incur a deduction of 100% of the contract value.

Under what circumstances can a pilgrim get a refund?

Booking fees are refundable under the following conditions:
1. Death of the main applicant, or of the husband in case of the wife.
2. Traffic accidents preventing the performance of Hajj, with submission of proof confirming the information and dates.
3. Criminal incidents preventing Hajj, with submission of proof confirming the information and dates.
4. Health incapacity requiring hospitalization, supported by reports from government hospitals. If reports are from private hospitals, they must be certified by the Ministry of Health. All reports must be in Arabic.

When will Hajj permits start being issued through Absher?

Starting from 01/11/1447H.

Can I cancel my booking after the permit has been issued?

Yes, you can cancel via the NUSUK Masar platform or the NUSUK app by selecting “Cancel Booking,” in accordance with the booking cancellation policy.

How are refunds processed?

The refunded amount will be deposited into the account added by the beneficiary within 7 to 14 days from the cancellation date.

What types of Hajj packages are available this year, and what is the difference between them?

There are three Hajj packages available this year. Applicants can choose the package that suits them via the NUSUK app or website.

Are there additional services provided by Hajj establishments?

Yes, Hajj establishments have the right to offer optional additional services for their packages at extra cost. Pilgrims can select these services and pay for them through the Hajj program during the booking process.

How can I modify a booking, add companions, or assign a substitute?

Companions can be added or removed, or the entire booking can be canceled before finalizing the reservation. Individual bookings can also be canceled after completion.

How can sacrificial animals (Udhiyah) be purchased – if available?

Sacrificial animals can be purchased through the NUSUK app as an additional service, but only after purchasing the Hajj package contract.

Is there a specific duration between submitting the exemption request and its approval?

There is no specific duration.

What will be the format of the message sent to the pilgrim’s mobile to confirm/accept the booking?

The applicant will receive the following message:
*"Congratulations! Your Hajj booking for * pilgrims on the * package in * city has been completed.
Your booking number is . The booking price is * SAR.
Please pay the invoice via the SADAD system using invoice number * and select the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah account (Biller No. 161) before *** to avoid cancellation of your booking.
You can check the details of your booking through the platform or app and make any modifications if needed.
We also emphasize that no additional payments should be made to any Hajj company or establishment, as the SADAD invoice covers all services included in your package."

Can a woman perform Hajj without a Mahram?

Yes, a Mahram is not mandatory for all Hajj packages. Women can register under a women-only group.

Can I perform Hajj using a visit or work visa?

No, performing Hajj requires a valid national ID or residency permit.

What are the mandatory vaccinations for pilgrims?

Hajj requires the meningococcal vaccine. Seasonal influenza and COVID-19 vaccines are also recommended.

I performed Hajj last year. Can I perform Hajj this year with my wife, or on behalf of someone else?

Hajj is only allowed as a Mahram exemption for a female as a husband, brother, son, or father.

How can Gulf nationals residing inside the Kingdom, who are not residents, register for Hajj?

Citizens of GCC countries cannot register through this platform. Registration is only available for those holding a national ID or a residency permit.

How can one check eligibility for Hajj?

Hajj eligibility can be checked through the National Information Center.

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