What is Nusuk App? Nusuk is the official digital platform of Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. For UAE residents performing Umrah in 2026, using the Nusuk app is MANDATORY not optional. Without a Nusuk-issued QR permit, you will be denied entry into Masjid al Haram even with a valid Umrah visa. The app is free to download on iOS and Android. |
Why UAE Residents MUST Use Nusuk App in 2026
If you are a UAE resident planning Umrah in 2026, the Nusuk app is no longer optional it is mandatory. Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has made Nusuk the single official gateway for all pilgrims to book Umrah permits, access Masjid al-Haram, book Rawdah slots in Madinah, and manage their entire pilgrimage from one platform.
As of 2026, Nusuk has surpassed 51 million registered users from more than 190 countries making it one of the largest pilgrimage management systems in the world. UAE residents, whether citizens or expats, must register and obtain a valid permit through the Nusuk app before arriving at the Haram gates.
The app completely replaces the older Eatmarna platform, which is no longer active. It also introduces powerful new features specifically useful for UAE-based pilgrims, including the “Any Visa Is an Umrah Visa” policy, eVisa applications, and the Nusuk Wallet.
IMPORTANT WARNING for UAE Pilgrims Security personnel at EVERY gate of Masjid al Haram scan QR codes generated by the Nusuk app. A valid Umrah visa alone is no longer enough. Without an active Nusuk permit, you WILL be turned away at the gates even if your visa is fully valid and you have traveled all the way from the UAE. |
What is the Nusuk App? Complete Overview
Nusuk (also written as Nusuk.sa or the Nusuk Umrah app) is the official digital platform developed and operated by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. It was introduced to digitize and streamline the entire Umrah and Hajj experience under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
Think of Nusuk as your complete digital companion for Umrah from the moment you apply for your visa in Dubai, all the way until you complete your rituals in Makkah and Madinah. It brings together more than 130 digital services under one account.
What Can UAE Residents Do on Nusuk?
- Apply for Umrah eVisa directly (eligible nationalities)
- Book and manage Umrah entry permits with QR codes
- Book Rawdah (Riyad ul-Jannah) prayer slots in Madinah
- Search, compare, and book Umrah packages from licensed providers
- Book flights from Dubai to Jeddah or Madinah
- Reserve hotels near Masjid al-Haram in Makkah
- Access real-time crowd maps for Haram and Rawdah
- Use Nusuk Wallet for in-country payments
- Get prayer times, Qibla direction, and Quran recitation
- Book Ziyarat (site visits) in Makkah and Madinah
- Submit complaints and get 24/7 support
- Access spiritual guidance and duas for each ritual
New 2026 Rules UAE Residents Must Know Before Downloading
1. Any Visa Is an Umrah Visa New 2026 Policy
One of the biggest changes in 2026: if you already hold a valid Saudi tourist visa, transit visa, or personal visit visa, you can now perform Umrah with it as long as your visa is linked to Nusuk before arrival and you obtain an Umrah permit through the app.
This is a game-changer for UAE residents who travel to Saudi Arabia frequently. You no longer need a separate dedicated Umrah visa if you already have another type of Saudi visa.
2. Umrah Visa Validity Shortened to 30 Days
From 2026, once your Umrah visa is issued, you must enter Saudi Arabia within 30 days. This is reduced from the previous 90-day window. Plan your travel dates carefully before applying for the visa. The total allowed stay remains up to 90 days.
3. Pre Arrival Readiness Data is Now Mandatory
Before performing Umrah, every pilgrim must now complete a Pre-Arrival Readiness Data submission on Nusuk. This includes vaccination certificate details, passport confirmation, and travel information. Incomplete submissions will block your permit issuance even if your eVisa is already approved.
4. Accommodation Booking on Nusuk is Required for Visa
As of June 2026, pilgrims applying for an Umrah visa through the Nusuk platform must first book their accommodation through the official Nusuk Masar platform before the visa can be issued. This ensures all services are verified and connected.
5. Tourist Visa Umrah (Multiple Entry) Discontinued Post Hajj
UAE residents who previously performed Umrah multiple times a year using tourist visas should note: the multiple-entry tourist visa option for Umrah has been discontinued post the 2026 Hajj season. All pilgrims must now use the official Nusuk Umrah visa process.
Step 1 — How to Download Nusuk App in UAE
The Nusuk app is completely free to download. Always download from official app stores only the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah does not support APK sideloading from third-party websites, and fake clones exist that steal personal data.
For iPhone (iOS):
- Open the Apple App Store on your iPhone
- Search for “Nusuk نسك“
- Select the official app by Ministry of Hajj and Umrah
- Tap “Get” and confirm with Face ID or Touch ID
- Wait for download to complete app size approximately 150MB
For Android:
- Open Google Play Store
- Search for “NUSUK” in the search bar
- Select the official Nusuk app
- Tap “Install” and wait for installation
- Open app once installed
Security Tip for UAE Residents Only download Nusuk from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Never download APK files from WhatsApp groups, websites, or third-party stores. Fake Nusuk apps exist and are designed to steal your passport and visa information. |
Step 2 — How to Register on Nusuk App (UAE Residents)
Registration on Nusuk is straightforward but requires your valid Umrah visa or border number. Complete registration as soon as your visa is issued do not wait until you arrive in Saudi Arabia.
Registration Steps:
- Open the Nusuk app and select your preferred language (English, Arabic, or Urdu available)
- On the welcome screen, tap “Register New User”
- Select “Visitor” as your account type
- Enter your Passport Number (must match your Umrah visa exactly)
- Enter your Visa Number (found on your Umrah visa document)
- Fill in your Date of Birth, Mobile Number, and Email Address
- Tap “Send OTP” you will receive a one-time password via SMS
- Enter the OTP to verify your mobile number
- Upload a clear passport-size photograph (white background)
- Your account is now created you will see your Nusuk profile dashboard
Important Registration Tips for UAE Residents:
- Use the SAME email and mobile number used during your Umrah visa application
- Your name in Nusuk must match your passport EXACTLY even small differences cause rejection
- UAE residents should use their UAE mobile number (+971) for OTP
- If OTP is not received via SMS, use email verification as alternative
- Register immediately after visa issuance do not delay
- Multiple family members can be added under one account as “Companions”
Step 3 — How UAE Residents Can Apply for Umrah eVisa on Nusuk
UAE residents whether UAE citizens or expatriates can use the Nusuk platform to apply for their Umrah visa directly. The process differs slightly depending on your nationality and residency status.
For UAE Citizens (Passport Holders):
UAE citizens are GCC nationals and enjoy streamlined access. On the Nusuk website (nusuk.sa), click on “eSaudi Visa” and select your nationality. As a GCC resident, you will see two options: Saudi Visa Online (eVisa) and Package Visa.
Visa Type | Cost | Validity | Best For |
Traditional Umrah Visa | AED 150–300 (agent fees only) | 30 days entry window | Those using travel agents |
Saudi eVisa via Nusuk | SAR 300 + SAR 39 fee (~AED 330) | 1 year, multiple entry | Independent travelers |
Package Visa (Nusuk) | Included in package price | Linked to package dates | Those booking full packages |
For Expatriate Residents in UAE:
Expats living in UAE with a valid UAE residence visa can apply for an Umrah visa through Nusuk or through a licensed UAE travel agency. Requirements include a passport valid for at least 6 months, UAE residence visa with minimum 3 months remaining validity, and a valid Emirates ID.
- Valid passport 6+ months validity from travel date
- UAE residence visa minimum 3 months validity beyond entry date
- Valid Emirates ID
- Recent passport-size photo white background
- Meningitis (ACWY) vaccination certificate mandatory, taken at least 10 days before travel
- Hotel booking confirmation (as of June 2026 required before visa issuance)
- Return flight ticket booking
Step 4 — How to Book Umrah Permit on Nusuk App
The Umrah permit is the most critical step. Without this permit and the QR code it generates you cannot enter Masjid al-Haram in Makkah, even with a valid visa. Book your permit immediately after your visa is approved and your registration is complete.
- Open the Nusuk app and log in to your account
- From the home dashboard, scroll to “Permits” section
- Tap “Umrah Permit” from the options
- Select your preferred date and time slot (green slots = lighter crowds, recommended)
- If you have companions registered under your account, check their names too
- Review your selection and confirm booking
- A QR code will be generated and saved to your account
- Take a screenshot of the QR code as offline backup
- At the Haram gates, security will scan your QR code for entry
Pro Tip: Save QR Code Offline Before leaving the UAE, take a screenshot of your Nusuk QR permit and save it in your phone gallery. Mobile data can be slow or unavailable at crowded Haram gates. A screenshot as backup ensures you are never turned away due to connectivity issues. |
Step 5 — How to Book Rawdah Slot on Nusuk App
Visiting the Rawdah (Riyad ul-Jannah) in Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah is one of the most spiritually significant experiences of Umrah. In 2026, the ONLY way to enter the Rawdah is through a valid Nusuk permit. Slots are extremely limited and fill up within seconds of opening.
How to Book Rawdah Permit:
- Open Nusuk app and go to “Prophet’s Mosque Services”
- Tap “Booking of Permit for Noble Rawdah (Men)” or “(Women)” men and women have different visiting hours
- Check available time slots these are released periodically
- Select your preferred slot and confirm booking
- Save the QR code arrive at the designated gate 30 minutes early
Rawdah Booking Tips:
- You can only book ONE Rawdah slot every 365 days book wisely
- New slots appear every 20 minutes via “Instant Track” for pilgrims near the mosque
- Use the “Waitlist” feature to get notified when a slot opens
- Slots usually refresh on Fridays around Dhuhr time set an alarm
- Arrive at the correct gate shown in your permit (usually Gate 37 for men)
- Maximum 10-15 minutes inside guards will politely ask you to move
- Do not bring large bags not permitted in the Rawdah queue
Booking Umrah Packages from UAE via Nusuk
UAE residents can now book complete Umrah packages directly through the Nusuk platform without any external travel agent. The platform only lists officially licensed and Ministry approved service providers, ensuring quality and legitimacy.
Types of Packages Available:
Package Type | Starting Price (AED) | Includes | Best For |
Economy Package | 1,700 – 2,500 | Flight, 3-star hotel, visa, transfers | Solo or budget pilgrims |
Standard Package | 2,500 – 4,000 | Flight, 4-star hotel, all meals, guide | Couples and small groups |
Family Package | 3,500 – 6,000 | Family rooms, dedicated guide, extra support | Families with children |
Premium Package | 6,000 – 15,000+ | 5-star hotel near Haram, VIP transfers | Comfort seekers |
GCC residents including UAE citizens can perform Umrah throughout the year with no seasonal restrictions. All packages include visa processing, accommodation in Makkah and Madinah, transportation between cities, and a licensed guide.
Nusuk Wallet How UAE Residents Can Use It
The Nusuk Wallet is the world’s first international digital wallet built specifically for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. It was launched by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in partnership with Saudi National Bank under the NEO brand, and is approved by the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA).
What Can You Do with Nusuk Wallet?
- Pay for flights, hotels, and transport directly inside the app
- Make in-country purchases in Saudi Arabia without carrying large amounts of cash
- Send money to family members traveling with you
- Get automatic refunds if a booking is cancelled
- Use biometric verification and encryption for secure transactions
How to Activate Nusuk Wallet from UAE:
- Open Nusuk app and go to “Wallet” section
- Complete identity verification with your passport details
- Top up the wallet via international credit/debit card or bank transfer (IBAN)
- Use the wallet balance for all bookings and purchases within the app
AI Crowd Management Nusuk’s Smart Features for 2026
One of the most impressive new features in 2026: Nusuk now uses artificial intelligence to track real-time crowd occupancy at both Masjid al-Haram and the Rawdah in Madinah.
- Live green, orange, red traffic-light signals show which Haram gates are clear
- Push notifications when your chosen gate or prayer area hits capacity
- Alternative gate and time slot suggestions when crowds are high
- GPS-powered navigation inside the Haram complex
- Real-time crowd maps updated every few minutes
- Best timing recommendations for Tawaf based on current occupancy
Common Nusuk App Problems & Solutions for UAE Users
Problem | Cause | Solution |
OTP not received | UAE number format issue | Use email verification instead of SMS |
Login error | Wrong visa/border number entered | Double-check visa document use full number |
Name mismatch error | Name doesn’t match passport exactly | Re-enter name exactly as on passport (include all middle names) |
No Rawdah slots available | All slots taken | Use Instant Track at :01 or :31 past the hour; enable Waitlist |
QR code not scanning | Screen brightness / app error | Increase brightness; show screenshot backup instead |
Payment failing | UAE bank blocking international transactions | Use international credit card or activate Nusuk Wallet |
Permit not generating | Pre-Arrival data incomplete | Complete all Pre-Arrival Readiness Data fields in your profile |
“User limit reached” error | Glitch not a real block | Wait a few seconds and keep refreshing |
Top 10 Nusuk Tips Specifically for UAE Residents
- Register on Nusuk immediately when your visa is issued do not wait until departure
- Use your UAE mobile number (+971) for registration ensure international SMS is active
- Grab your Rawdah slot BEFORE you leave Dubai slots are gone within seconds of opening
- Book off-peak months (Muharram, Safar, Shawwal) for cheaper packages and easier permit slots
- Add all family members as “Companions” in your profile before booking permits
- Download offline maps of Makkah and Madinah from the Nusuk app before your flight
- Activate Nusuk Wallet before departure UAE international cards sometimes have issues in Saudi
- Screenshot all QR codes before leaving UAE save in phone gallery and WhatsApp to yourself
- Complete your Pre-Arrival Readiness Data submission at least 2 weeks before travel
- Contact UAEUmrah.com for help navigating Nusuk registration and permit booking from the UAE
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The Nusuk app is mandatory for all pilgrims performing Umrah in 2026, including UAE residents. Without a valid Nusuk issued QR permit, you will be denied entry into Masjid al-Haram at every gate even with a valid Umrah visa. There are no exemptions based on nationality.
No. Security personnel at Masjid al-Haram scan QR codes generated by the Nusuk app at every entry gate. Without an active permit and valid QR code in your Nusuk account, access to the Haram will be denied. Register and book your permit before leaving the UAE.
Yes. The Nusuk app is completely free to download on both iOS (Apple App Store) and Android (Google Play Store). There are no charges for the app itself. Fees only apply for specific services such as the eVisa (SAR 300 + SAR 39 application fee) or optional hotel and flight bookings within the app.
To register on Nusuk, UAE residents need: a valid passport with at least 6 months validity, a valid Umrah visa number, a UAE mobile number for OTP verification, an active email address, and a recent passport-size photo with a white background. The name entered must exactly match the passport.
Yes. Expats residing in the UAE with a valid UAE residence visa and Emirates ID can fully use the Nusuk app for Umrah. They can register, apply for eVisa (if eligible by nationality), book permits, and manage their entire pilgrimage through the app. UAE residence visa must have at least 3 months validity beyond the entry date into Saudi Arabia.
Yes, eligible UAE residents can apply for Umrah eVisa directly through the Nusuk platform. Citizens of approximately 66 countries plus holders of valid US, UK, or Schengen visas can apply for a digital Umrah eVisa on nusuk.sa. The Saudi eVisa costs SAR 300 (approximately AED 293) plus a SAR 39 application fee. UAE citizens can use their UAE passport to access the GCC resident visa pathway.
In 2026, Saudi Arabia introduced a policy allowing holders of Saudi tourist, transit, or personal visit visas to perform Umrah without needing a separate dedicated Umrah visa. The existing visa must be linked to your Nusuk account before arrival and a Umrah permit must be issued through the app. This benefits UAE residents who travel to Saudi Arabia frequently on tourist visas.
From 2026, UAE residents must enter Saudi Arabia within 30 days of their Umrah visa being issued reduced from the previous 90-day window. Plan your travel dates before applying. Once inside Saudi Arabia, the maximum allowed stay remains up to 90 days.
Yes. UAE residents can book their Rawdah slot from Dubai before departure. Go to Prophet’s Mosque Services in the Nusuk app and tap Booking of Permit for Noble Rawdah. Note: you can only book one Rawdah slot every 365 days. Slots are extremely limited and fill up within seconds book as early as possible.
UAE numbers (+971) sometimes experience SMS delivery delays with Saudi platforms. If OTP is not received within 60 seconds, use the email verification option instead of SMS. Ensure you are using the same mobile number that was submitted during your visa application. Also check that your UAE SIM has international SMS enabled.
Meal inclusions vary by package. Economy packages typically include breakfast, while premium packages include full board. All details are clearly mentioned in package descriptions.
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