Latest news with #NusukHajj
Time of India
02-06-2025
- Time of India
US visa requirements for Hajj and Umrah one must know
An estimated 1.8 million Muslims from around the globe are preparing for a life-changing spiritual journey: Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia. In 2025, Hajj will begin on June 4 and continue through June 9, though pilgrims often begin arriving days or even weeks in advance to spiritually and physically prepare. What is Hajj and when does it take place? Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and is considered a religious obligation for every Muslim who is physically and financially able to make the journey. The pilgrimage is performed annually between the 8th and 12th (or 13th) of Dhul-Hijjah, the final month in the Islamic lunar calendar. Notably, 2025 marks the last time in over a decade that Hajj will fall during Mecca's scorching summer season. The five- to six-day pilgrimage includes sacred rituals performed in and around Mecca, Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah. The journey culminates with the symbolic stoning of the Devil at Jamarat, followed by final rites to mark the completion of Hajj. What is Umrah, and how is it different from Hajj? Unlike Hajj, Umrah is a non-mandatory pilgrimage that Muslims can perform at any time of year. Though it includes some of the same rituals as Hajj, it is shorter in duration and does not substitute for the obligatory Hajj. Many pilgrims choose to perform Umrah alongside or separately from the Hajj season. Visa requirements for Hajj and Umrah Performing Hajj or Umrah requires careful planning and strict adherence to Saudi Arabia's visa policies. For Hajj, in particular, visas are issued only through the official Nusuk Hajj platform, authorized by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Using the Nusuk Platform Saudi Arabia's Nusuk Hajj platform is the only official portal for booking and managing your Hajj journey. Through Nusuk, pilgrims can select packages, book flights, make payments, and receive their Hajj visa. This process is mandatory for all pilgrims, including U.S. citizens and U.S. residents living in Saudi Arabia. Authorities have warned that Hajj bookings, payments, and visa applications cannot be completed through third-party travel agencies outside of Nusuk. Attempting to perform Hajj without a valid permit can lead to serious consequences which include detention, deportation, fines, or a ban on future entry into Saudi Arabia. Umrah Visa Options Unlike Hajj, Umrah can be performed on either a dedicated Umrah visa or a Saudi tourist visa. U.S. citizens planning to perform Umrah outside of the Hajj season may apply through various channels, including official Saudi visa portals. However, it's important to not overstay your visa. Staying in the country beyond your permitted duration can result in significant fines, possible detention, and a ban on future visits. These penalties can be thousands of dollars, especially during peak Hajj season. Additional guidelines pilgrims should know Travel Areas & Restrictions: Hajj and Umrah visas are not valid for work or residency, and only allow travel to authorized pilgrimage sites. Non-Muslims are strictly prohibited from entering Mecca and the sacred areas of Medina. Duration of Stay: After completing Hajj, pilgrims must depart Saudi Arabia promptly. Travel to other cities like Jeddah or Medina is permitted only if it's part of the pre-approved Hajj package. Women Pilgrims: Women are now allowed to register and perform Hajj without a male guardian (mahram), in line with updated Saudi regulations. Accessibility: While major holy sites like the Grand Mosque in Mecca are accessible, many hotels and public transport options may not meet full accessibility standards. Pilgrims with specific mobility or medical needs should make prior arrangements and consult with travel providers. All official documents related to your pilgrimage—such as flight tickets, hotel bookings, and visa expiry dates—should be carefully reviewed before and during your trip. Saudi Arabia follows the Hijri calendar, so it's essential to double-check dates and timelines listed on your visa. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Barnama
13-05-2025
- Barnama
Two Held In Makkah For Hajj Fraud, Sheltering Visit Visa Holders
MAKKAH, May 13 (Bernama-SPA) -- Security patrols in Makkah arrested two Indonesian residents for committing fraud by publishing advertisements for fake and misleading Hajj campaigns, promoting counterfeit Nusuk Hajj cards, and violating Hajj regulations. According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), they committed the fraud by sheltering 23 visitors holding various types of visit visas in a building in Makkah. The residents were detained, legal measures were taken against them, and they were referred to the Public Prosecution, while those they sheltered were referred to the competent authority to apply the legally prescribed penalties against them.
Gulf News
23-04-2025
- Gulf News
Saudi Arabia arrests two over fake Hajj campaigns targeting pilgrims online
Dubai: Saudi authorities have arrested a Saudi national and a foreign resident in Mecca for operating fraudulent Hajj campaigns that falsely promised accommodation and transportation services within the holy sites, Mecca Police announced on Monday. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has repeatedly warned prospective pilgrims against falling victim to such scams, emphasizing that performing Hajj is only possible with an official visa issued by Saudi authorities—either through licensed Hajj missions or the Kingdom's official Nusuk Hajj platform. 'These fake campaigns exploit the spiritual aspirations of pilgrims and pose a serious risk to their safety and experience,' the Ministry said. The suspects allegedly promoted misleading advertisements offering housing and transport within the sacred sites, in violation of Saudi regulations. Authorities said the individuals used social media to lure unsuspecting pilgrims with false promises of low-cost packages and seamless logistics. As part of its digital transformation strategy and efforts to combat fraud, Saudi Arabia has launched Nusuk, a unified online portal managed by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. The platform serves pilgrims from over 50 countries without official Hajj missions, offering approved service packages with transparent pricing and guaranteed standards. 'The Nusuk platform is the only safe and legitimate channel for international pilgrims from select countries to secure Hajj packages,' said Ahmed Bajuaifer, advisor to the National Committee for Hajj and Umrah. 'Anyone attempting to book through unlicensed sources risks losing their opportunity to perform the pilgrimage.' Pilgrims are urged to rely exclusively on the official Nusuk platform and authorized agents to avoid falling prey to fraudulent schemes.
Asharq Al-Awsat
16-04-2025
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Saudi Arabia Arrests Citizen for Promoting Fake Hajj Campaign Ads
Saudi police in the Makkah region have arrested a citizen for posting fraudulent and misleading Hajj campaign ads on social media. The ads promised accommodation and transportation services for pilgrims in the holy sites, aimed at deceiving people for financial gain. The Directorate of Public Security announced on its official X account that the suspect has been detained, with legal action taken against him. The case has been referred to the Public Prosecution. The Directorate urged citizens and residents to adhere to the rules and regulations of Hajj and report any violations by contacting the following numbers: (911) for Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, and (999) for the rest of the Kingdom. Last week, Saudi authorities warned individuals planning to perform Hajj to avoid falling for fake ads and deceptive offers, urging them to only use official channels. In a statement, the Ministry of Hajj clarified that pilgrims must obtain a Hajj visa issued by the relevant Saudi authorities, coordinated with specialized offices in 80 countries. The ministry also highlighted the direct booking options available through the Nusuk Hajj platform for pilgrims from 126 countries. The statement emphasized that the official electronic path on the ministry's website and the Nusuk app are the only authorized channels for domestic pilgrims to book packages. The ministry has made provisions for inquiries and reports in multiple languages, available 24/7 through the 'Guest of Rahman Care' center. This is part of the ministry's efforts to assist pilgrims and ensure they perform their rituals with ease and peace of mind. In related developments, the Ministry of Tourism last Sunday reinforced the prohibition on hosting individuals in Makkah who do not have a valid Hajj permit or work/residence entry approval. This directive, effective from April 29 until the end of the Hajj season, aims to ensure the safety and security of pilgrims. Coinciding with this, the Ministry of Interior announced measures to safeguard pilgrims' safety, stating that individuals holding any type of visa other than a Hajj visa will not be allowed entry or stay in Makkah during this period. The Ministry of Tourism also clarified that hospitality facilities in Makkah are strictly prohibited from hosting those affected by the Interior Ministry's directive, with violations subject to legal penalties.
Gulf Insider
13-04-2025
- Gulf Insider
Saudi Arabia Launches Six Verified Hajj Packages On Nusuk Amid Crackdown On Fraudulent Campaigns
As Saudi Arabia intensifies warnings against fraudulent Hajj campaigns, the official Hajj platform, 'Nusuk Hajj,' is offering tailored packages for pilgrims from over 50 countries, ensuring a smooth religious experience for those seeking to perform the sacred pilgrimage. Managed by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, Nusuk, the Kingdom's centralised platform for Hajj and Umrah services, currently offers six officially sanctioned Hajj packages to pilgrims from over 50 countries. The packages—ranging from basic to luxury—are designed to cater to varying budgets and preferences, all while maintaining core service quality and compliance with Saudi Arabia's pilgrimage regulations. Standard: Designed to offer all the essential services for a wholesome and affordable Hajj journey, the Standard package includes accommodations in 3-star hotels or residential buildings for a minimum of 14 days, with camp access in Majar Al Kabsh or Al Muaisim. Designed to offer all the essential services for a wholesome and affordable Hajj journey, the Standard package includes accommodations in 3-star hotels or residential buildings for a minimum of 14 days, with camp access in Majar Al Kabsh or Al Muaisim. Standard shifting: Ideal for those seeking extended stays within a modest budget, this option provides pilgrims with essential services, including accommodation in 3- or 4-star hotels and residential buildings over a 14-day period, with shifting between locations and camp access in Majar Al Kabsh or Al Muaisim. Ideal for those seeking extended stays within a modest budget, this option provides pilgrims with essential services, including accommodation in 3- or 4-star hotels and residential buildings over a 14-day period, with shifting between locations and camp access in Majar Al Kabsh or Al Muaisim. Premium: A blend of comfort and convenience, the Premium package offers a minimum 10-day stay in 4-star hotels, providing a well-rounded Hajj experience with structured access to key religious sites and services. A blend of comfort and convenience, the Premium package offers a minimum 10-day stay in 4-star hotels, providing a well-rounded Hajj experience with structured access to key religious sites and services. Premium shifting : Balancing elevated service with accessibility, this package offers 14 days of accommodation in 4-star or 3-star hotels or residential buildings, allowing for shifting between locations while maintaining a high standard of comfort and organization. : Balancing elevated service with accessibility, this package offers 14 days of accommodation in 4-star or 3-star hotels or residential buildings, allowing for shifting between locations while maintaining a high standard of comfort and organization. Luxury: Tailored for an indulgent experience, the luxury package includes a 10-day stay exclusively in 5-star hotels, offering the highest level of service, comfort, and ease of access to Hajj rituals. Tailored for an indulgent experience, the luxury package includes a 10-day stay exclusively in 5-star hotels, offering the highest level of service, comfort, and ease of access to Hajj rituals. Luxury shifting: Striking the ideal balance between opulence and practicality, this package includes 14 days of accommodation in 5-star or 4-star hotels or residential buildings, offering flexibility, premium amenities, and seamless transitions throughout the pilgrimage. As the countdown to Hajj 2025 begins, the Saudi government is urging all pilgrims to book through authorized channels, adhere to the visa and travel timelines, and choose their packages wisely.
