Strict rules for Umrah, pilgrims must follow these guidelines

While these new regulations aim to make the pilgrimage route more transparent and organized, they are now compulsory for all pilgrims. Below are the 10 essential changes that must be followed before performing Umrah:

1. Hotel Booking Mandatory at Visa Application
   Hotel booking must be done at the time of visa application, not afterward. Applicants must select approved hotels via the Masar system or Nusuk app, or confirm staying with relatives.

2. Saudi ID Required if Staying with Relatives
   If staying at a relative’s home in Saudi Arabia, the host must provide their unified Saudi ID number. Any change in plan must be updated with the new ID.

3. Umrah Completely Prohibited on Tourist Visas
   Performing Umrah on a tourist visa is now banned. Anyone attempting this may be denied entry to holy sites such as Riyadhul Jannah.

4. Mandatory Umrah Visa
   All pilgrims must obtain an Umrah visa through the Nusuk platform either as an e-visa or via an approved agent’s package.

5. Travel Itinerary Cannot Be Changed
   Travel itineraries must be submitted during visa application and cannot be changed or postponed later. Violations may result in fines.

6. On-Arrival Visa for Certain Countries
   Visa holders or residents of the UK, USA, Canada, or Schengen countries who have previously traveled there may get a visa on arrival. The visa validity will be one year.

7. Booking Verification at Airports
   Officials will verify hotel and transport bookings on the Nusuk or Masar systems upon arrival. Missing information may lead to travel denial or fines.

8. Only Approved Taxis and Transport Allowed
   Pilgrims must use only approved taxis, buses, or trains booked through the Nusuk app. Use of unapproved vehicles may result in penalties.

9. Haramain Express Train Operates Only Until 9 PM
   The popular Haramain Express train runs only until 9 PM. Pilgrims arriving later must pre-book alternate approved transport.

10. Strict Fines for Violations
    Unauthorized vehicle use, overstaying, or itinerary violations will incur fines of at least 750 Saudi Riyals per person.