Saudi Arabia Bans Umrah On Tourist Visa, Reveals 10 New Rules Pilgrims Must Follow

Performing Umrah has always been a deeply personal dream for millions of Muslims. But let’s face it, organising the trip—from visas to hotels and transport often felt like navigating a maze. Many relied on agents; others tried sneaky shortcuts using tourist visas. Truth be told, it didn’t always end well. So here are 10 new rules for Umrah pilgrims. 

No Umrah On Tourist Visa: 10 New Rules Pilgrims Must Know

Now, Saudi Arabia has tightened the reins. According to Umrah operators in the UAE, every step—from visa applications to transport and hotel bookings is tied to official platforms. Expect a more organised journey with compliance that’s no longer optional. Before you start to pack, here’s all you need to know. 

1. Hotels Must Be Booked With A Visa

Forget leaving hotel bookings for later. When applying for an Umrah visa, pilgrims must choose an approved hotel via the Masar system (linked to the Nusuk app) or confirm they’ll stay with relatives in Saudi Arabia. “Hotels and transportation are linked inside Masar. Even taxis must be booked through the portal to ensure only authorised services are used,” explains Qaisar Mahmood, owner of Asaa Tours and Travels.

2. Staying With Relatives Requires A Saudi ID

Planning to crash with family or friends? The new umrah rule says you’ll need the host’s unified Saudi ID, which links directly to your visa. Any changes or delays must be updated in the system. “If someone isn’t booking a hotel, they must register the Saudi host’s ID. Even if plans shift, the record must be updated,” adds Mahmood.

3. No Tourist Visas Allowed

Tourist visas are out. Trying to perform Umrah alone is risky, and pilgrims may be stopped or denied access to Riyaz ul Jannah in Madinah. “Even if you reach Makkah, entry into key sites isn’t guaranteed,” warns operator Shihab.

4. Umrah Visa Is Mandatory

There’s no workaround. Pilgrims must apply for a dedicated Umrah visa via the Nusuk platform—either as an eVisa or through approved packages. “The Saudi system is clear: Umrah visas are the only legal route,” says Mahmood.

5. Itineraries Are Strict

Your itinerary must be uploaded during the visa application and cannot be changed. Overstaying? Expect fines. “Extensions are not allowed. Agents face fines starting from SAR 750 (AED734) per person, and the system may block them,” Mahmood notes.

6. Visa on Arrival for Some

Travellers from the UK, US, Canada, or Schengen countries—or anyone living there—can snag a visa on arrival. Just make sure you’ve actually visited those countries before, and remember, the visa is good for a year.

7. Airport Checks Are Strict

Officials verify hotel and transport bookings on Nusuk or Masar. Missing details? You might be stopped, and agents fined.

8. Only Authorised Transport

Taxis, buses, and trains must be booked through official channels. No hopping into random cars from the airport.

9. Train Timings Matter

The Haramain Express train runs only until 9 pm. Land late? Book alternative authorised transport in advance to avoid hassles.

Also Read: Saudi Arabia: A Permanent Museum Of History Of Hajj & Two Holy Mosques On The Cards

10. Heavy Fines For Violations

Breaking rules comes at a price starting at AED750 for pilgrims and agents alike. Breaking the rules comes with consequences, and the authorities don’t look the other way. 

Still, the tighter system isn’t all bad—it actually makes the whole journey run more smoothly if you stick to it. After all, an Umrah planned properly is far more peaceful than one filled with last-minute shocks.

Cover Image Courtesy: CanvaPro/ Mike Jones from Mike Jones