Embarking on the sacred journey of Umrah is a profound spiritual milestone for every Muslim. In recent years, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia simplified the pilgrimage process by replacing older platforms like Eatmarna with the official Nusuk platform (formerly integrated under Saudi Vision 2030).
Whether you are planning a DIY Umrah trip or booking independently for the first time, this complete step-by-step guide walks you through how to book Umrah through Nusuk, apply for an Umrah visa, secure your Rawdah permit, and prepare your essentials before departing.
What is the Nusuk App?
Nusuk (nusuk.sa) is the official digital platform managed by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. It allows international pilgrims and Saudi residents to:
- Apply for an official Umrah visa online.
- Issue mandatory Umrah permits to perform Tawaaf at the Holy Kaaba in Makkah.
- Reserve time slots to visit the Riaz ul Jannah (Rawdah Mubarak) in Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, Madinah.
- Access official transport, hotel bookings, and guided pilgrimage packages.
Prerequisites Before Booking on Nusuk
Before starting your application, ensure you have the following documents ready:
- Valid Passport: Must have at least 6 months of validity remaining from your travel date.
- Valid Visa: A tourist visa, Umrah visa, transit visa, or GCC residency permit.
- Active Email & Mobile Number: For OTP verification and receiving digital permits.
- Digital Passport Photo: A clear, white-background photograph in JPEG/PNG format.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Book Umrah via Nusuk
1.Download the Official Nusuk App:Available on Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Download the Nusuk app on your smartphone. Open the app, select your preferred language (English or Arabic), and grant the necessary location permissions required for permit verification in Saudi Arabia.
2.Create Your Account:Select International Visitor or Resident.
Click on “New User” and select “Visitor” if you are traveling from outside Saudi Arabia. Enter your basic details:
- Passport Number
- Visa Number (or Tourist Visa Application Number)
- Nationality and Date of Birth
- Email Address and Mobile Number
- Set a secure password
3.Verify Your Email via OTP:Security step before issuing permits.
Check your registered email inbox for a 4-digit verification code (OTP). Enter the code into the app to complete registration and activate your user profile.
4.Issue Your Umrah Permit:Mandatory for entering Masjid al-Haram.
From the main dashboard, tap “Umrah Permit”:
- Select your name (or add family members as dependents).
- View the color-coded capacity calendar (Green = Low crowds, Yellow = Moderate, Red = High crowd).
- Pick your preferred date and time slot for performing Umrah.
- Read and accept the terms & conditions, then click “Issue Permit”.
5.Book Your Permit for Rawdah Mubarak (Madinah):Strictly required for visiting Riaz ul Jannah.
Navigate to “Services” → “Praying in the Noble Rawdah”:
- Select whether you are booking for Men or Women (time slots are strictly gender-segregated).
- Choose an available date and time slot.
- Confirm the booking to generate your QR code permit.
Key Tips for Booking Rawdah Mubarak Permits
Because demand for visiting the Rawdah in Madinah is extremely high:
- Slot Refresh Times: Slots are released periodically on Fridays and throughout the week. Check the app frequently if your desired date is full.
- One Permit Rule: Pilgrims are generally permitted to visit the Noble Rawdah once every 365 days via the Nusuk app.
- Keep QR Codes Accessible: Take a screenshot of your permits or save them offline inside the app, as internet connectivity can be slow around the Holy Mosques.
Essential Checklist for First-Time Pilgrims
Preparing your mind, heart, and luggage is just as important as securing your digital permits.
| Item Category | Recommended Essentials |
| Documents | Passport, printed visa copy, physical/digital Nusuk permits, hotel vouchers |
| Attire (Ihram) | 2 sets of unstitched white Ihram towels (for men), breathable Abayas and Hijabs (for women) |
| Footwear | Comfortable, non-slip walking shoes and flip-flops for shoe-racks |
| Personal Care | Fragrance-free soap, unscented moisturizer, petroleum jelly (for chafing prevention) |
| Accessories | Tawaf counter, waist belt/neck pouch for holding cash and phone securely |
Final Thoughts
Navigating the Nusuk platform makes organizing an independent pilgrimage smooth and transparent. By securing your Umrah permit and Rawdah slot early, you can focus on worship, dua, and spiritual reflection during your time in the Holy Cities.
May Allah accept your Umrah, forgive your sins, and grant you a blessed and safe journey.
