If you are planning a pilgrimage to the sacred cities of Saudi Arabia, you have probably heard the same advice repeatedly, "Download Nusuk First”. Many pilgrims don't understand why one application has become so important for the journey to Makkah and Madinah. This guide will help you understand why it is necessary for the visitors to download this application, and how to avoid common mistakes.
Latest Update: Nusuk App Now Required for Umrah and Rawdah Access
Now, international pilgrims must have access to the Nusuk app for entry to Masjid al-Haram in order to perform Umrah and to get permission to enter the Noble Rawdah in Madinah. The visa alone isn't enough; because the permit you book in the app is what lets you through the gates at your assigned time.
What this means for you:
Please book permits before the actual time. Make sure to reserve your Umrah and Rawdah slots through the application as soon as possible after your visa gets approved. As the slots of Rawdah fill up quickly it is recommended to book early.
Be sure to have your QR code ready. It will be scanned at the entry gates, so save a screen shot in case you lose as connectivity issues are common in crowd.
Permits are free. No fees are charged in Nusuk for booking Umrah and Rawdah permits, so stay away from people who charge you for these permits.
Your tour operator can't replace the app. Even if your agent arranges your visa, hotel, and transport, install Nusuk on your own phone.
Check seasonal restrictions. Availability of permits may be restricted or canceled during peak periods, including the weeks leading up to and following Hajj, so please check before making non-refundable travel arrangements.
Check seasonal restrictions. Permit availability can be limited or suspended during peak periods, such as the weeks around Hajj, so make sure to give a look towards the policies and restrictions before booking.
Get the application from the official App Store or Google Play listing (developed by Ministry of Hajj and Umrah), register before departure and book in advance.
The rules and availability may change rapidly. Please check the latest requirements before travelling in the Nusuk app or Ministry of Hajj and Umrah website.
What Is Nusuk?
The Nusuk is the official digital platform of the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in Saudi Arabia. It later expanded to Nusuk Hajj (Registration & Package booking for Hajj in eligible countries) and Nusuk Umrah (International Umrah visa applications and travel services). By March 2026, the platform had over 51 million users globally. It replaced the previous Eatmarna app that was used for the registration of Umrah and Hajj performers, as well as permits for visiting Al-Rawdah Al-Sharifah.
Nusuk now serves as a single point of access to the two holy mosques and for permits and crowd control.
So, Why Do You Actually Need It?
1. A visa is not enough. You also need a permit.
This is one of the most common misunderstandings. The visa allows you to enter Saudi Arabia and the permit allows you to enter Masjid al-Haram for Umrah or the Rawdah at a particular time. You may be turned away at the gates if you don't have a permit.
The same source states that with the general visa in 2026, those with tourist eVisas and a number of other visas are able to conduct Umrah. Regardless of this, the visa is just a way to enter the Kingdom. The mosque is only accessible with a time-limited permit which is booked in Nusuk.
2. Your tour operator can't do everything for you
It is important to get registered at the Nusuk app on your phone because your Umrah permit is digital and linked to your pilgrim ID. Your travel agency will help you provide the visa, accommodation, and transfers while Nusuk will do the rest.
3. The Rawdah requires its own permit
One of the most in-demand places in Madinah is the Rawdah (Riyad ul-Jannah) of Masjid-e-Nabawi. The Ministry's FAQ itself states that a booked permit is needed to pray in the Rawdah Sharifah. Slots are in high demand and sell out fast!
4. Crowd management and safety
Every year, millions of people perform the pilgrimage. Time-slotted permits spread people throughout the day, minimizing the overcrowding, aiding security and medical staff planning and making the event safer for all.
5. It keeps everything in one place
In addition to permits, Nusuk also provides access to maps, instructions, and key religious guidance for pilgrims. Other guides also mention features of booking transport and accommodation.
Umrah vs. Hajj: How Nusuk Works for Each
Umrah | Hajj | |
Role of Nusuk | You book your Umrah and Rawdah permits yourself in the app | Registration and package booking happen through Nusuk Hajj or your authorized provider |
Cost of permits | Booking an Umrah permit through Nusuk is free. | Hajj packages are paid, and costs depend on the provider and category |
Who handles it | You, though agents can help | Often your authorized travel agency or national Hajj mission |
Note that the Nusuk app handles free Umrah and Rawdah permits, while Nusuk Hajj is a separate web platform for registering and booking a paid Hajj package from an authorized service provider like Dua Travels.
Latest Hajj updates:
The Saudi service provider in June 2026 said that all Nigerian pilgrims would be issued with their Nusuk cards before they left for the Hajj in 2027. The card is used for the pilgrims to register their personal information, health information and other important information.
What Will Your Umrah Look Like with Nusuk?
Apply for a visa from an authorized travel agency like Dua Travels or via the official channels in your country.
Download Nusuk (Search for "Nusuk" by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah) and register. According to one guide, the process involves clicking on “Register New User”, selecting “Visitor”, filling the passport, visa, date of birth, mobile number, email address, and then confirming with an OTP.
Apply for Umrah Permit under Permits → Umrah Permit.
Please book a Rawdah slot through Prophet's Mosque Services → Noble Rawdah.
Save your QR codes. On Permits, there is a QR code, please screenshot and store it offline.
Be punctual at the gate. One guide advises to come 30 minutes before to the gate indicated in the app.
Precautions Every Pilgrim Should Take
Here are a few things to keep in mind during your Pilgrimage:
Please download and register in advance for travel. Registration and permits can be done prior to travel, eliminating the need to wait until you arrive at weak airport Wi-Fi.
Book Rawdah slots early. They sell out fast. Confirm availability early in the morning Saudi time, be flexible with the slot and book companions in the same request.
Understand the time of year for restrictions. Before booking non-refundable travel, one guide mentions that Umrah Package USA cancelled and permit suspended during Hajj preparation period (April – May) and other busy times..
Only use the official app. Download it from the App Store or Google Play, and search for the developer, Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. There are fake apps and fake "permit sellers", and remember that the permits are free.
Avoid paying permits. If someone else is charging you for the permit, it is a red flag.
Have a screen shot and a charged cell phone. Carry a power bank. The permit is on your phone and a dead battery at the gate is a problem.
Review the permit information. Names and passport numbers should be identical. Errors may result in a denial of entry.
Please do not miss your turn. Failing to book a Rawdah is expensive. Other guides suggest that you are only allowed to book one time a year, while others state that there is no annual limit. The rules have evolved over time, consult the in-app terms.
While men and women can book the same Rawdah, as mentioned in one FAQ, please check the rules for your group.
Don't be a no-show; cancel instead. The Ministry says there's no way to edit a slot but new appointments can be added prior to the permit time on the app and a new permit issued.
Troubleshooting: Log off and back on the computer or reinstall the permit. If all else fails, one guide recommends calling Nusuk's customer service at +966 920002814. Check the number in the application before taking it for granted.
Benefits of Using Nusuk
Free permits: no fees to download the app or book Umrah and Rawdah permits.
Time slots offer you fewer crowds and shorter queues to wait.
Digital convenience: One application for permits, maps and guidance, no paper trail to lose.
Better planning: knowing when you enter into the Haram and the Rawdah and planning the days in Makkah and Madinah.
Improved safety: authorities have better control over crowd movement and can better deal with emergencies.
Official and trusted: It is operated by the Ministry itself, which minimises the risk of scams.
Final Thoughts
Nusuk is not just another app. It is the electronic key to the Two Holy Mosques. If you download early, register correctly, book your permits in time and only through official channels, you'll be able to concentrate on what's important: your worship.
Disclaimer: Please note that rules and permit availability and seasonal restrictions are subject to change. Please check the most up-to-date information on the official Nusuk application or the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah's website (haj.gov.sa) before travelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is mandatory to have Nusuk app?
It is the place where permits are booked for international pilgrims. Sources have confirmed that Umrah permits are also mandatory and several 2026 guides confirm that the Rawdah permits are also mandatory.
Is it possible to use it without a cell phone?
It is advised to discuss about this with your agent. Nusuk is primarily via the app, although some services also have a web option.
May Nusuk app be used by non-Muslims?
The Nusuk app can be used by anyone, but you need to be Muslim to perform Umrah or get Rawdah permits.