The year 2026 brings major changes to the Umrah visa process, making it easier for many pilgrims to obtain their visas without relying on traditional agents. Saudi Arabia is modernizing its visa system under the digital Nusuk platform, allowing qualified individuals to complete most procedures themselves online or through official channels.
🌟 What’s the Big Change in 2026?
Traditionally, many Muslims had to apply for Umrah visas through travel agencies or tour operators. But now:
✅ All valid Saudi visas can be used to perform Umrah
Pilgrims holding certain valid visas—such as tourist visas, family visit visas, transit visas, or work visas—are now allowed to perform Umrah during their stay without needing a separate Umrah visa issued by an agent. This is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader Vision 2030 effort to expand religious travel and make access easier.
✅ Digital Application Through Official Platforms
A major update is the use of the official Nusuk digital platform for applying and obtaining approvals. Pilgrims can register their details, submit required bookings (hotel + transport), and obtain necessary permits directly online, reducing dependency on agents.
This means:
- You can often apply yourself if your nationality is eligible and you meet all requirements.
- You don’t have to give your money to travel agents just for visa processing.
- You control the process through the official channels.
🛂 Important Requirements You Must Know
Even if you’re applying without an agent, the visa process still has essential rules:
📍 1. Nusuk Platform Is Mandatory
All pilgrims—even those with valid visas planning Umrah—must register and manage their Umrah permits through Nusuk (the Saudi government’s official digital platform).
📍 2. Pre-Booking Conditions
Visa or permit will not be issued unless you have:
- Confirmed hotel bookings linked in the Nusuk system (must be licensed accommodations).
- Confirmed transport arrangements (airport pickup + local travel).
- Some reports also mention that confirmed flight tickets may be required.
This is part of a “No booking, no permit” policy that streamlines the process and prevents pilgrims from arriving without arrangements.
📍 3. Visa Validity & Travel Window
For 2026:
- The entry window is 30 days from visa approval.
- Once entered, many pilgrims can stay up to 90 days to perform Umrah and visit other cities.
🧾 Step-by-Step: How to Apply Without an Agent
Here’s a general process for getting your Umrah permit/visa without an agent:
- Check Visa Eligibility:
- See if your passport and country are eligible for a Saudi tourist visa or Umrah permit directly.
- If eligible, you can apply via the official Saudi e-visa portal or Nusuk.
- Register on Nusuk Platform:
- Create an account and follow the process to apply for Umrah permits.
- Book Hotel + Transport:
- Secure hotel accommodation in Makkah and/or Madinah through the Nusuk linking system.
- Arrange airport transfers and local transport.
- Submit Online:
- Upload documentation and confirm all bookings via Nusuk.
- Receive Approval & Travel:
- Once approved, you can download your permit and plan your trip.
💡 Tip: Always apply well ahead of your travel date to avoid delays.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. Can anyone do Umrah visa without an agent in 2026?
✔ Many people can apply online themselves if eligible for a Saudi visa type that allows Umrah and they meet the booking requirements. However, some nationalities may still find agent support helpful to ensure correct Nusuk linking.
Q. Is a travel agent completely unnecessary now?
✖ Not always.
While many can apply independently, agents can help handle documentation and Nusuk linking, especially if you face technical issues or complex requirements.
Q. Do I need hotel and flight bookings before applying?
✔ Yes — confirmed hotel stays (linked to Nusuk) and transport/flight details are often mandatory for approval.
Q. Can I use Uber/Careem bookings for visa requirements?
❌ No. Only licensed and Nusuk-approved bookings count toward visa requirements.
Q. How long is the visa valid?
➡ In 2026, the visa is generally valid for 30 days from issuance — after that, you must enter Saudi Arabia.
📝 Conclusion
The 2026 Umrah visa changes bring real good news for pilgrims: you can now do much of the process yourself, especially if you are eligible for Saudi visas like tourist, family visit, or work visas. With the expanded digital ecosystem through Nusuk, the old necessity of always using a travel agent is fading for many. However, complete bookings and requirements still apply — so planning ahead and following official procedures is key.
➡ For more detailed updates and travel advice, visit infoportal.com.pk.
Rana Shahriyar is a dedicated content writer and contributor at Info Portal. With a strong interest in social welfare programs and government initiatives, his work focuses on delivering clear, reliable, and easy to understand information for the public.