Performing Umrah is set to become much simpler for Muslims around the world, thanks to Saudi Arabia’s newly launched Nusuk Umrah platform. Many UAE residents said that the service, which allows them to apply for visas and other itineraries, will cut through middlemen, save costs, and make the sacred journey easier than ever.
For many residents, the launch comes as a big relief. Until now, travellers often relied on travel agents or one-time visit visas. Others used to perform Umrah on tourist visas, which allowed multiple trips in a year but has been discontinued for now post the Hajj season this year.
Khizar Aalam, a 46-year-old businessman in Dubai, has been performing Umrah once or twice every year for the last decade. He said the new system will make repeat visits much easier.
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“Earlier, I had to go through agents every time I wanted to travel. The paperwork, coordination, and cost were always a hassle. Now with Nusuk, I can directly apply for a visa, choose my hotel in Makkah or Madinah, and book transport without waiting for anyone. It gives me the freedom to plan my Umrah whenever I want,” said Aalam.
How to apply?
Applying for an Umrah visa online for a GCC resident is simple. On the Nusuk website, users can click on ‘eSaudi Visa,’ which first guides them to select their nationality. If the applicant is a GCC resident, two options appear: Saudi Visa Online and Package Visa.
The Saudi Visa Online (eVisa) costs SAR 300 (Dh293.62), with an additional application fee of SAR 39.44 (Dh38.60). The visa can be issued as a single or multiple-entry permit, depending on the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs. A multiple-entry visa remains valid for one year from the date of issue and allows stays of up to 90 days. Applicants must hold a valid GCC residency visa with at least three months’ validity beyond their entry date, and passports must be valid for six months. For travellers under 18 years old, a parent must apply first.
The Package Visa option is available by booking through one of the ministry’s approved service providers online or by visiting a local travel agency authorised to issue Umrah packages. This route allows pilgrims to obtain the visa while also bundling accommodation, transportation, and other services in a single booking.
‘Umrah one click away’
For Arfa TM, a 37-year-old resident in Sharjah, the platform has come at the perfect time. He is planning his first Umrah with his wife later this year.
“This will be our first Umrah together, and we were nervous about going through an agent or worrying about whether the paperwork would go smoothly,” said Arfa.
“Now, I’ll just use the Nusuk app. I can get the visa, book our flights, hotels, and transport all by myself in a few minutes. It feels more secure, and I know exactly what I am paying for,” he said.
Abdel Rahman, a 28-year-old Sudanese living in Al Nahda, has never been to Umrah but has always wanted to go. He said the new system has removed the last barrier.
“Umrah now is just one click away. Many people, including myself, kept delaying Umrah because we thought the process would be complicated, expensive, or time-consuming. But now, everything is online and clear,” said Rahman.
“If I think today that I want to go, I can just book my visa and accommodation right away. People won’t keep postponing anymore, they will just go,” said Rahman.
SM Ayaz Zakir
SM Ayaz Zakir is a Senior Correspondent with a flair for extraordinary stories. His playground? Every corner of the UAE. He often ventures into remote corners of the country to capture compelling news and human interest stories.